ASM Hydrasynth

^# 89

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$569.00 to $1,110.95 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (10)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

Find out who is using ASM Hydrasynth

3 community setups

27 wishlisted

76 saved

Page last updated Jun 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated June 3, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (32)

$649.00

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$649.00

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4.8 (52)

$649.00

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4.0 (12)

$1,110.95 19 available New

$805.00 8 available Used

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5.0 (5)

$649.00

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5.0 (4)

$649.00

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4.8 (62)

$569.00

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£545.00

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$649.00

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Average Price: $709

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, ASM Hydrasynth is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "ASM Hydrasynth". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Unleash your creativity with the ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard, a powerful synthesizer that packs a punch in a compact design. This 37-key synth offers an array of innovative features that allow you to explore and manipulate sounds to your heart's content. With 8-voice polyphony, 3 WaveScan oscillators per voice, and 4 Mutators, this synth offers extensive waveshaping capabilities. Its 5 ADSR envelope generators offer delay and hold, with linear or exponential curves between stages for nuanced, non-linear sounds. The ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard is also battery-powered, making it a convenient choice for musicians on the go.

Key Features:

37 PolyTouch-enabled slim synth keys
8-voice polyphony with 3 WaveScan oscillators per voice
4 Mutators for extensive waveshaping
5 ADSR envelope generators with delay and hold
5 LFOs with a total of 11 waveshapes
Pitch-bend strip and mod strip with LED depth indicators
Battery-powered for portability
32-slot modulation matrix for nuanced and expressive sounds
PolyTouch capabilities for an expressive playing experience
8 Macro controls for real-time manipulation of multiple parameters simultaneously
Integration with modular/semi-modular synthesizers through CV/Gate connectivity
8 insert effects including Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Phaser, Lo-Fi, Tremolo, EQ, Compressor, Delay, and Reverb.

Product specs

Type	Keyboard Synthesizer
Sound Engine	Wavetable Synthesis
Analog/Digital	Digital
Number of Keys	37
Type of Keys	Semi-weighted
Aftertouch	Polyphonic Aftertouch
Velocity Sensitive	Yes
Other Controllers	Pitchbend and Modulation Ribbon Controllers
Polyphony	8 Notes
Number of Presets	640 Factory Patches
Oscillators	2 x WaveScan Oscillators, 1 x Fixed Wave Oscillator, 1 x Noise Generator
Waveforms	219 x Waveforms, 4 x Wave Mutators
LFO	5 x LFO (sine, triangle, saw up/down, square, pulse 27%, pulse 13%, S&H, noise, random, step)
Filter	Multimode Filter, 2-mode Filter (lowpass/bandpass/highpass, lowpass/notch/highpass)
Envelope Generator	5 x ADSR ; Delay, Hold, Looping
Effects Types	4 x Reverb, 6 x Delay, 5 x Modulation, Distortion, EQ, Compressor, Lo-Fi
Arpeggiator	8 x Modes with Direction, Octave, Chord, Phrase
Audio Outputs	2 x 1/4" (L/mono, R)
Headphones	1 x 1/4"
USB	1 x Type B
MIDI I/O	In/Out/USB
Pedal Inputs	1 x 1/4" (sustain)
Other I/O	2 x Mod Out, Pitch Out, Gate Out, Clock Out
Mod Matrix	32-slot, 35 Sources, 191 Destinations
Power Source	12V DC power supply (included), 8 x AA batteries
Height	3.1"
Width	21.9"
Depth	10"
Weight	7.5 lbs.

FAQs

Is the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer polyphonic?: Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer is polyphonic, offering 8-voice polyphony, which allows you to play complex chords and layered sounds simultaneously.
What type of synthesis does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer use?: The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer utilizes wavetable synthesis, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities with its 219 waveforms and wave morphing capabilities.
Does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer support aftertouch?: Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer features polyphonic aftertouch, allowing for expressive performances where each note can be individually modulated.
How portable is the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer?: The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer is designed to be portable, weighing only 7.5 lbs and featuring a compact size, making it easy to transport for gigs or studio sessions.
Can the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer be powered by batteries?: Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer can be powered by 8 AA batteries, in addition to the included 12V DC power supply, making it versatile for on-the-go use.
What connectivity options does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer offer?: The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer includes MIDI In/Out, USB, and various audio outputs, allowing for integration with other gear and easy connection to your DAW or audio interface.

Videos

Add video

loopop

HYDRASYNTH: Full Review // Keyboard vs Desktop // Poly aftertouch tutorial

loopop

ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard Preset Sounds

Perfect Circuit

ASM Hydrasynth Sounds Demo — Daniel Fisher

Sweetwater

ASM Hydrasynth - Factory Presets Demo (no talking)

wolfgang S vukan

Hydrasynth Keyboard Performance by Dominic Au

ASM Ashun Sound Machines

ASM Hydrasynth - All Playing, No Talking!

Kraft Music

ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard Synthesizer Sounds Demo & Best Features

PMTVUK

Can the ASM Hydrasynth sound analog ? (My take on the ASM Hydrasynth keys)

Yuki The Synth Dragon

ASM Hydrasynth ► Over 650 Presets [3 HOURS]

Mr. Card

Reviews

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PROS

Sounds amazing with the ability to closely mimic analog synths
Powerful modulation capabilities with 5 LFOs and 5 envelopes
Polyphonic aftertouch adds to expressiveness
User-friendly interface, minimal menu diving
Versatile for various music styles, particularly EDM and Ambient
Built-in arpeggiator and effects enhance sound crafting
High build quality, described as "built like a tank"
Extensive preset library with 640 editable presets
Battery-powered for portability
Regular firmware updates expand functionality

CONS

Factory presets can sound too "digital" for some
Lack of built-in speakers
Some find the presets thin sounding without manual adjustments
Initial learning curve for complete novices in synthesis

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

0 0

The Hydrasynth Desktop's pads are functional for patch creation but not ideal for performance; owners suggest pairing with a Launchpad for serious pad work.
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0 0

The Explorer model includes PolyTouch, enhancing expressive capabilities, although it lacks a ribbon controller compared to other models.
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0 0

The "mutants" feature can be challenging for users to grasp, contrasting with the more intuitive regular oscillators and mod matrix.
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0 0

The standard Hydrasynth offers CV/Gate outputs and supports two pedals, providing more connectivity options than the Explorer.
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0 0

The Explorer and standard Hydrasynth share the same engine and controls, with the Deluxe being the only version with dual engine instances for expanded sound design.
Source

Comparisons

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The keybed of the 49-key version matches the quality of the Korg Keystage, providing a familiar feel for those who have used similar gear.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners praise the 49-key version's keybed as "butter," making it a preferred choice for primary synth/MIDI controller duties.
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0 0

Some owners note that the Hydrasynth desktop pads, while not keys, include polyphonic aftertouch, enhancing its capability beyond initial impressions.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The desktop version is noted for being particularly well-suited for live performances, with some owners choosing it for its compact setup.
Source
0 0

The Hydrasynth Explorer's portability (7.5 lbs) makes it ideal for playing in unconventional locations like the park or at the dinner table.
Source

Other

0 0

While the Hydrasynth lacks analog filters, users still regard it as an incredible piece of gear for digital synthesis.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

Owners consider the Explorer a budget-friendly option, especially when portability is a priority, but some recommend saving for the Deluxe for long-term studio use.
Source

Critic Reviews

ASM Hydrasynth

soundonsound.com

A groundbreaking entry from a new player, the ASM Hydrasynth dazzles with innovative features like polyphonic aftertouch and a rich synthesis engine. Its robust build and intuitive interface enhance playability, while the array of waveforms and modulation options promise a sonic playground for creative minds. However, the lack of a fifth octave limits traditional two-handed playing, and navigating patches can be cumbersome without direct access options. Still, its powerful sound design capabilities and unique features make it a compelling option for synthesizer enthusiasts looking to push boundaries.

positive

Full Review

ASM Hydrasynth review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The ASM Hydrasynth is a standout debut, combining exceptional sound quality and build with an intuitive interface. While its polyphonic aftertouch is a game-changer, the synth's complexity requires patience to unlock its full potential. Despite lacking a built-in power supply, the Hydrasynth offers an impressive range of features that cater to both beginners and experienced synth enthusiasts alike. It's a mesmerizing journey for sound design that invites exploration, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

positive

Full Review

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 10 Ratings

5 star

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2 star

1 star

freezeetch

1539

over 5 years ago

Mind-boggling

I wasn't 100% convinced on the resurgence of digital synths when this originally came out, but I revisited it recently and realized what a ridiculously amazing instrument this is! I got this to replace my Korg Prologue 8, which honestly I was a bit depressed to part with because it's a lovely synth, but I always found myself making the same sounds with it, and the 8 voices, 1 LFO and 1 filter felt rather limiting at times. With the Hydrasynth having 5 LFOs, 5 envelopes, 3 oscillators, 4 "mutators", practically infinite modulation options, an advanced arpeggiator, tons of wavetables, crazy waveshapes, and randomization/chance type controls, the synth engine feels truly bottomless. Add tons of onboard effects, CV connectivity, polyphonic aftertouch, a huge ribbon controller, extremely useful OLED displays, a layout that is relatively easy to understand (considering how complex this thing is), and a formidable build quality, plus a team of people at Ashun Sound Machines pushing out awesome firmware updates, and you have an unbelievably expressive future classic. Astounding!

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Keyboardist

Genres:

Electronic Techno Electro

pkennethk

26660

5 years ago over 5 years ago

This is so good to hear. One can only have so many reissues of classic synths. Glad you're loving the Hydrasynth. Your stuff on Soundcloud really slaps too, FWIW. Well done.

freezeetch

1539

5 years ago over 5 years ago

Thanks! The stuff on my SoundCloud is mostly half-finished sketches, you can find more polished/complete stuff on my Bandcamp. Here is my newest album, released about a year ago (there is also a new remix mini-album on the Component Recordings Bandcamp):

https://freezeetch.bandcamp.com/album/all-context-vanishes-2020

pkennethk

26660

5 years ago over 5 years ago

listening to your Bandcamp right now. These soundscapes have the goods, man. thank you!

freezeetch

1539

5 years ago over 5 years ago

Haha, thanks, glad you dig it! =)