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Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer

$3,587.20 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (19)

3 Critic Reviews

1 Review

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3 community setups

23 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 21, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 21, 2026.

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5.0 (10)

$3,587.20 9 available Used

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Average Price: $3,587

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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The Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer is a masterpiece of innovation and design, crafted for musicians who crave the power of analog and digital synthesis in one instrument. This iconic synthesizer merges the warmth of analog oscillators with the versatility of digital waveforms, providing a unique sonic palette that sets it apart from conventional synthesizers.

With four-part multitimbral capabilities, each voice features two analog and two digital oscillators, allowing you to craft intricate sounds with ease. The Poly Evolver's distinctive sound-shaping tools, like its versatile modulation matrix and dual analog filters, offer endless possibilities for sound design. Its intuitive interface ensures that musicians, whether on stage or in the studio, can seamlessly navigate its features to create truly unique sonic landscapes.

The 16-step sequencer is another standout feature, offering both real-time and step-time programming for dynamic live performances or intricate compositions. With extensive MIDI implementation, the Poly Evolver can easily integrate into any modern setup, making it an excellent addition to any musician's toolkit.

Key Features:

Four-part multitimbral synthesizer with both analog and digital oscillators
Dual analog low-pass filters for rich, warm tones
16-step sequencer with both real-time and step-time programming options
Comprehensive modulation matrix for intricate sound design
Extensive MIDI implementation for seamless integration into existing setups
High-quality build and intuitive interface for ease of use
Unique sonic capabilities, blending both vintage and digital sounds

Product specs

Brand	Dave Smith Instruments
Model	Poly Evolver 61-Key 4-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Finish	Blue with Wood Sides
Year	2005 - 2011
Made In	United States
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Hybrid
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	4 Voices

FAQs

Is the Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?: The Poly Evolver is a 4-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing you to play up to four notes simultaneously.
What type of synthesis does the Poly Evolver use?: The Poly Evolver is a hybrid synthesizer, combining both analog and digital synthesis elements for a versatile sound palette.
How does the keyboard action of the Poly Evolver feel?: The Poly Evolver features a semi-weighted keyboard, providing a balanced feel that is responsive for both expressive playing and fast passages.
Can the Poly Evolver integrate with other MIDI devices?: Yes, the Poly Evolver has MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, making it compatible with a wide range of MIDI-equipped instruments and controllers.
What are the standout features of the Poly Evolver's sound engine?: The Poly Evolver's sound engine includes unique features such as digital wave sequencing and analog-style subtractive synthesis, offering a broad range of sonic possibilities.

Videos

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Alamo Music Sound Lab

Dave Smith Poly Evolver | The Most Interesting Synth in the Last 30 Years?

Alamo Music Sound Lab

The Poly Evolver is wonderfully weird... and may be my new favorite synth

Jameson Nathan Jones

Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Keyboard Demo

Panu M Savolainen

Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Sound Demo (No Talking)

Pure Ambient Drone

Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Keyboard: Vintage Strings

The Musical Synthesizer

DSI Poly Evolver Synthesizer | Why I Got It

Pure Ambient Drone

synthpro's DSI Poly Evolver (Sold)

synthpro

DSI Poly Evolver Keyboard | Ambient pads demo

MIDERA

Reviews

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PROS

Excels in producing unique, weird sounds
Innovative design unmatched by newer models
Full modulation and tone sculpting capabilities
Offers wavetable synthesis for diverse sound creation
Polyphony is expandable up to 20 voices
Favoured for its digital analog synthesis quality
Has a durable build compared to newer plastic models

CONS

Original encoders may be faulty, check if replaced
Polyphony is limited without expansions
Interface is not the most straight forward

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

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The Poly Evolver's combination of two analog oscillators with two digital Prophet VS-inspired oscillators creates a unique stereo sound that's rarely matched.
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The synth's stereo analog filter and extensive modulation routing capabilities allow for complex poly-rhythmic sequencing, offering a distinctive creative edge.
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The Curtis filters are well-regarded for maintaining sound clarity in the stereo field, with the high-pass filter effectively removing unwanted low-end frequencies.
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The Pro 2 includes a filter architecture that provides an analog feel, despite being a digital synth, sharing a filter with the OB-6 but not fully replicating its classic tones.
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User experience

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Owners highlight the challenging yet rewarding usability, with some embracing the synth's unstable sound quality as a charming characteristic.
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Some users find the user interface of the desktop version cumbersome, impacting its overall appeal despite the innovative architecture.
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Owners find the Poly Evolver's user interface frustrating due to the need to use encoders for scrolling through sources and destinations, unlike the more intuitive interface on the P12.
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The Poly Evolver is praised for its stereo sound, with oscillators 1 & 3 routed left and 2 & 4 right, creating an impressive audio experience without much manipulation.
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Comparisons

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The Poly Evolver's true stereo signal path is compared favorably to the Hydrasynth, which lacks one oscillator but offers a similar stereo experience.
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The Pro 2, while spec-wise superior, offers a completely different tonal experience compared to the Poly Evolver, with the former leaning more towards a modern/retro-modern hybrid sound.
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Use cases and applications

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The Matrix 1000 is mentioned as a better-sounding synth compared to the Poly Evolver, despite the latter being noted as one of the best sounding from DSI/Sequential.
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The synth excels in creating lead sounds and plucks, with its stereo signal path enhancing arpeggiator performances, particularly when randomizing envelope decay and release.
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Setup and maintenance

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A known issue with the Poly Evolver desktop version is that oscillator 4 does not keytrack correctly, and there is ongoing difficulty in obtaining firmware updates from DSI.
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Sequential offers a repair service for DSI products at a flat fee of $25, excluding shipping, making it a cost-effective option for fixing minor issues.
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Value and pricing

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The Poly Evolver Desktop can be found at surprisingly low prices in certain regions, with one owner acquiring it for as low as $50 in Pakistan.
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Mods and upgrades

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Owners often recommend replacing the original knobs due to their poor quality, noting that aftermarket options improve both aesthetics and functionality.
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Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Poly Evolver Keyboard

soundonsound.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer is a stunning blend of digital and true analog technologies, offering unique and innovative sounds that range from genuine analog warmth to biting digital textures. Its knob-laden interface makes navigating the complex synth engine surprisingly manageable and intuitive. The PEK's aesthetic appeal, with its classy design and vibrant blue LEDs, adds to its allure. However, its four-voice polyphony feels limiting, especially at its price point, and the external PSU is a minor annoyance. Despite these drawbacks, the PEK remains a powerful, distinctive synth with a deep sonic potential that can inspire musicians for years.

positive

Full Review

Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer is a powerhouse that marries analog warmth with digital versatility. Its hybrid design features four voices, each with dual analog and digital oscillators, providing lush, expansive sounds. The interface is a dream for real-time programming, with 77 knobs and 59 switches inviting hands-on exploration. Though praised for its stunning stereo imaging and flexible sequencing capabilities, the synth's complexity may overwhelm those not accustomed to deep programming. Additionally, the reliance on MIDI for loading user wavetables could be seen as a limitation. Overall, the Poly Evolver is a bold testament to innovative synth design, appealing to those seeking a rich, dynamic soundscape.

positive

Full Review

Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Keyboard Review - InSync

sweetwater.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Poly Evolver Synthesizer is a marvel of sonic variety and quality. With its warm, thick analog tones complemented by clear digital air, it's a playground for creative expression. The 77 knobs and 59 switches offer immense control, making it a joy for both novices and professionals to craft unique sounds. Every program inspires new musical ideas, from vocal-like lead synths to evolving club tracks, making it a versatile tool for DJs and sound designers alike. While the review is overwhelmingly positive, it doesn't mention any significant drawbacks, suggesting it may not cover potential limitations. Overall, the Poly Evolver is celebrated for its sound quality and flexibility.

positive

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 19 Ratings

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