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Average Price: $443

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$500

$1501+

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Description

The Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard is a mesmerizing blend of analog warmth and digital versatility, crafted by the legendary mind behind the iconic Prophet 5. This 37-key synthesizer is not just a tool, but a playground for sonic exploration, with a design that nods to the classic synthesizers of the past while embracing the future of sound design. With a tactile interface boasting 58 knobs and a knob-per-function layout, the Evolver invites hands-on creativity, making it an ideal choice for both studio and stage performances.

At the heart of the Evolver is its hybrid architecture, featuring four oscillators—two analog and two digital—delivering an array of rich, textured sounds. The analog oscillators, reminiscent of the Prophet 5, offer classic waveforms like Sawtooth and Pulse, while the digital oscillators bring the grit and complexity with 96 wavetables from the Prophet VS and 32 user-loadable options. This combination ensures that whether you’re crafting lush pads or edgy leads, the Evolver delivers with exceptional depth and character.

The synthesizer's robust modulation capabilities, including four LFOs and three ADSR envelopes, allow for intricate sound shaping, while its analog lowpass filters and dual highpass filters provide the warmth and resonance that analog enthusiasts crave. With stereo audio inputs and extensive MIDI support, the Evolver Keyboard is as versatile as it is powerful, making it a staple in any synthesist's arsenal.

Key Features:

  • 37 keys with velocity and aftertouch
  • Four oscillators: two analog, two digital
  • 58 knobs with knob-per-function interface
  • Curtis analog lowpass filters and dual digital highpass filters
  • Extensive modulation options with 4 LFOs and 3 ADSR envelopes
  • Dual tunable feedback loops and digital distortion per channel
  • 16 x 4 analog-style sequencer with MIDI sync
  • Stereo audio inputs and noise generator
  • User-loadable wavetables via MIDI

FAQs

Is the Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard polyphonic or monophonic?

The Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard offers four voices of polyphony, allowing you to play complex chords and layered sounds.

What types of oscillators does the Evolver Keyboard have?

The Evolver Keyboard features four oscillators: two analog and two digital. The analog oscillators provide classic waveforms like sawtooth and triangle, while the digital ones offer 96 wavetables from the Prophet-VS and additional user-loadable wavetables.

How does the Evolver Keyboard handle modulation?

The Evolver Keyboard offers extensive modulation capabilities with three ADSR envelopes, four LFOs, and an analog-style sequencer. You can sync modulation sources with MIDI and use audio-range modulation for dynamic sound shaping.

Can I use external audio sources with the Evolver Keyboard?

Yes, the Evolver Keyboard includes stereo audio inputs and can use external audio as modulation sources or to gate envelopes and step the sequencer.

What are the standout features of the Evolver Keyboard's sound engine?

The Evolver Keyboard's sound engine includes dual analog and digital oscillators, real voltage-controlled analog filters, and a comprehensive modulation matrix, making it versatile for creating unique and complex sounds.

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DSI Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard

Video thumbnail for DSI Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard by Veell__old

DSI Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard

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Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Evolver by Tim Shoebridge

Dave Smith Instruments Evolver

Tim Shoebridge

Tim Shoebridge

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Evolver: Presets + Overview by Benn Jordan

Dave Smith Instruments Evolver: Presets + Overview

Benn Jordan

Benn Jordan

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard.

Features and functionality

  • The Evolver's knob matrix and lack of a screen offer a unique interface that encourages unconventional sound design approaches.

    Source
  • The Evolver's analog-digital mix is praised for its balanced sound, though the lack of a dedicated sequencer is a downside compared to newer models.

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Use cases and applications

  • Its ability to process guitar input with distortion effects makes it a favorite for experimental and techno music.

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  • The synth excels in creating lush leads and plucks, with its stereo signal path enhancing sound width and depth, making it ideal for atmospheric and experimental music.

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  • The synth is particularly praised for its ability to make the filter self-oscillate, a feature that enhances its utility for sound design and experimental music creation.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A common issue is noise due to the power supply; swapping power adapters has resolved this for some users.

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Software and compatibility

  • The Sound Tower Editor significantly enhances programming sequences and overall usability, opening up more features of the Evolver.

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User experience

  • After decades of continuous use, the Evolver may develop noise issues linked to the numeric display; these can often be resolved by checking the power supply or capacitors.

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  • Despite the minimalistic interface, users find the Evolver's editing process manageable, especially with row buttons that facilitate parameter adjustments.

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  • Owners often cite dissatisfaction with older Evolver models due to non-potentiometer versions having poor response, although individual experiences may vary.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Reseating the voice chip can resolve dead voice issues in older units, highlighting the importance of checking internal connections.

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  • Some users suggest replacing the encoders with potentiometers for improved durability, though it's noted that the Evolver Desktop model only supports encoders.

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Build quality

  • The original knobs on the Evolver are often criticized for their feel, prompting some owners to replace them for better handling during use.

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Value and pricing

  • Owners frequently find the Evolver to be worth significantly more than purchase costs, often valuing it at around ten times its selling price when in good condition.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Polyend Medusa is noted for its similar spirit to the Evolver, combining sequencing with oscillator variety.

    Source
  • The Elektron A4 MKI, still available for $500-600, is suggested as a viable alternative for those interested in Evolver-like features.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 10 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
ro5
ro5

3582

Great for generating raw drones and searing leads

It's Dave Smiths (Sequential, Wavestation...) great comeback to hardware synths. It is does not sound like a Prophet 5/6 or VS at all but can generate very interesting raw sounds. It sounds identical, but is more hands-on, than the desktop version. For quickly generating drones and searing leads the MEK is probably the best version of the Evolver and I doubt the polyphony (PEK) would justify it's pricetag. I'd take e.g. my Oberheim or Nord anytime to create poly synth pads/chords. Note the initial versions had some knob issues so make sure you buy a version with the knob fixes installed. However I'm still looking for the right FX unit to marry it to... Any suggestions?

michael_barakat

Nice for tweaking

Nice mono synth. The keyboard with after touch and pressure sensitivity really makes for a great user experience and playability. It's worth noting that the version with the regular infinity turn knobs feels pretty weak. The potentiometer edition is much better feeling and easier to understand.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jordan Rudess uses Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

Jordan gives a tour of his Studio A and you can see the DSI Evolver around 2:28.

See how Brennan Heart uses Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard

Brennan Heart

Music Producer, DJ

2nd Area

...
Verified via Instagram

In this Instagram photo of Brennan Heart's studio, the Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard can be seen in front of his Apple display. He likely uses this for its synth sounds, and judging by its position in his studio gear setup also as a MIDI keyboard controller.

See how Blush Response uses Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard

Blush Response

Music Producer

...
Verified via 15questions

"My first proper setup was out of my college dorm room. I had an Access Virus TI, Waldorf Microwave XTk, Waldorf Pulse, Korg MS20, and Dave Smith Evolver."

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 Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Keyboard, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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