Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $5,222

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Black Corporation Xerxes MK2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 25, 2026.

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Description

Discover a realm of sonic possibilities with the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2, an 8-voice analogue synthesizer that combines vintage warmth with modern versatility. Engineered for musicians who crave both precision and creative freedom, the Xerxes MK2 is a masterpiece of analog design, offering a robust toolset to shape your soundscapes. Whether you're crafting lush, ambient textures or sharp, rhythmic pulses, this synth delivers an unparalleled auditory experience.

At the heart of the Xerxes MK2 are two DCOs per voice, providing triangle, sawtooth, rectangle, and pulse waveforms. The switchable ring modulator and adjustable oscillator drift allow for nuanced sound design, while the analogue multimode filter (low-pass, band-pass, high-pass) and switchable BBD chorus add depth and dimension to your tones. With full MIDI control and processing of polyphonic aftertouch and MPE, this synth seamlessly integrates into any modern setup.

The Xerxes MK2 is equipped with an OLED display, making it easy to navigate its extensive features and 1408 preset memories. Designed for both studio and stage, the unit includes a USB audio interface and balanced stereo audio output, ensuring high-quality sound wherever you play. Dive into a world of endless creativity with the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2, where every note is a new adventure.

Key Features:

  • 8-voice analogue synthesizer with two DCOs per voice
  • Triangle, sawtooth, rectangle, and pulse waveforms
  • Switchable ring modulator and adjustable oscillator drift
  • Analogue multimode filter: low-pass, band-pass, high-pass
  • Two ADSR envelopes and two synchronizable LFOs
  • Switchable analogue BBD chorus
  • Full MIDI control with polyphonic aftertouch and MPE
  • 1408 preset memories and OLED display
  • USB port and USB audio interface
  • Balanced stereo audio output: 2x 6.3 mm jacks

Product specs

Available since May 2023
Design 19" / 4U
Polyphony 8
Sound Generation Analogue
MIDI interface 1x In, 1x Out, 1x Thru
Storage Medium Internal
USB-port Yes
Effects No
Arpeggiator No
Number of Analog Outputs 2
Digital Output No
Display Yes
Optional Expansions None
Special Features None

FAQs

Is the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 polyphonic or monophonic?

The Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing for rich, layered sound creation.

Does the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 have built-in effects?

No, the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 does not include built-in effects, focusing instead on its pure analogue sound generation.

What type of sound generation does the Xerxes MK2 use?

The Xerxes MK2 utilizes analogue sound generation, offering warm and authentic synthesizer tones.

Can the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 be connected via USB?

Yes, the Xerxes MK2 features a USB port for easy connectivity with other devices and MIDI control.

Does the Xerxes MK2 come with an arpeggiator?

No, the Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 does not include an arpeggiator, focusing on its core analogue synthesis capabilities.

MrFirechild

MrFirechild

Black Corporation XERXES

Video thumbnail for Black Corporation XERXES by MrFirechild

Black Corporation XERXES

MrFirechild

MrFirechild

Video thumbnail for Black Corporation Xerxes Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer by Perfect Circuit

Black Corporation Xerxes Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for NAMM 2019: Black Corporation Xerxes Synthesizer Sound Demo - Elka Synthex Clone | SYNTH ANATOMY by SYNTH ANATOMY

NAMM 2019: Black Corporation Xerxes Synthesizer Sound Demo - Elka Synthex Clone | SYNTH ANATOMY

SYNTH ANATOMY

SYNTH ANATOMY

Video thumbnail for Black Corporation XERXES. I did not expect this! by Wine&Synths

Black Corporation XERXES. I did not expect this!

Wine&Synths

Wine&Synths

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Black Corporation Xerxes MK2.

Features and functionality

  • Xerxes offers variable sync phase control and pulse amplitude modulation, enhancing its capabilities beyond the Elka Synthex it emulates.

    Source
  • The Xerxes' oscillators are analog with digital pitch control, ensuring perfect tracking from 0.1Hz to 20kHz while allowing individual detuning.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate that the Xerxes stays consistently in tune, unlike the Kijimi and Deckard's Dream which require frequent retuning.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Xerxes is praised for having a wide sonic palette, including a multimode CEM3320-based filter offering low pass, two band pass, and high pass settings.

    Source

Build quality

  • The chorus on the Xerxes is a close replica of the Synthex chorus, featuring three distinct modes for rich sound enhancement.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Meet XERXES MK2, the new updated Elka Synthex replicant by Black Corporation

musictech.com

The Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 brings a fresh take on the classic Elka Synthex, boasting improved circuitry and a sleek design. Its analog warmth and versatile features, including MPE-based polyphonic aftertouch and a revamped VCA section, make it a compelling choice for synth enthusiasts. However, at a price point of $4,499, it may be out of reach for many. While it successfully combines vintage charm with modern capabilities, some may find the cost hard to justify, especially when considering alternatives in the market. Overall, it straddles the line between a desirable upgrade and a hefty investment.

Black Corporation XERXES poly analog Synthesizer gets an MK2 treatment

synthanatomy.com

The Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 is a well-crafted homage to the Elka Synthex, boasting impressive features like polyphonic aftertouch and a versatile modulation engine. However, while the synth sounds fantastic and sports an appealing design, its hefty price tag of $4,499 puts it out of reach for many musicians. With updated circuitry and limited availability, it caters to a niche market of serious enthusiasts rather than the casual player. If you can swing the cost, the Xerxes MK2 may be worth considering; otherwise, it might feel like a luxury you can do without.

Black Corporation XERXES MK2: Limited run of updated synth - gearnews.com

gearnews.com

The Black Corporation Xerxes MK2 offers an intriguing blend of classic synth elements and modern upgrades, including enhanced stereo output and a revamped VCA section. Its analog depth and MPE compatibility open up a world of creative sound possibilities. However, the steep price jump to $4,499 raises eyebrows, especially given the original's $2,999 tag. While its limited nature makes it desirable, the hefty cost might deter potential buyers. For those willing to invest, the MK2 holds promise, but it also serves as a reminder of the changing landscape in synthesizer pricing.

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Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Black Corporation Xerxes MK2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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13thfloorcowboy

13thfloorcowboy

Gear IQ 3956

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