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Description

Step into a world where vintage charm meets modern innovation with the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer. This synth is a nod to the iconic Prophet 5, a revolutionary instrument from the 1980s, yet it embraces today's technological advancements to offer musicians unparalleled creative potential. With its 61-key, 8-voice polyphonic design, you'll have a vast array of soundscapes at your fingertips, from lush analog basses to ethereal strings.

The Prophet 08 boasts a robust, all-analog signal path that captures the warmth and depth of classic synth sounds. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, its intuitive interface, featuring 52 tactile knobs, provides direct access to sound-shaping tools like four LFOs, three envelopes, and a gated sequencer per voice. The dual-layer capability allows for complex sound stacking or splitting, while a four-mode latchable arpeggiator invites endless rhythmic exploration.

Built with both modern and vintage aesthetics in mind, the Prophet 08 features durable wood end caps and a sleek black chassis. It's a timeless instrument that resonates with the soul of classic analog synthesis while opening doors to new sonic possibilities.

Key Features:

  • 61-key, 5-octave keyboard with velocity and aftertouch
  • 8-voice polyphony
  • All-analog signal path for authentic sound
  • 52 intuitive knobs for hands-on control
  • 2 oscillators per voice with 2/4 pole Curtis lowpass filter
  • Four LFOs and three envelopes per voice
  • Gated sequencer and analog step sequencer
  • Dual-layer program capability
  • 4-mode latchable arpeggiator
  • Stylish wood end caps and black chassis design

Product specs

Brand Dave Smith Instruments
Model Prophet 08 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Year 2007 - 2010
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

Is the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 a polyphonic synthesizer?

Yes, the Prophet 08 is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing you to play up to eight notes simultaneously.

What type of synthesis does the Prophet 08 use?

The Prophet 08 uses analog synthesis, providing warm and rich sound textures typical of analog synths.

How many keys does the Prophet 08 have and what is their action type?

The Prophet 08 features a 61-key keyboard with semi-weighted action, offering a responsive and expressive playing experience.

Does the Prophet 08 offer MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Prophet 08 includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of MIDI gear.

What are some standout features of the Prophet 08's sound engine?

The Prophet 08's sound engine is known for its versatile modulation capabilities, analog warmth, and comprehensive control over parameters, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

Johnny Posh

Johnny Posh

Dave Smith's Iconic Synth: What's So Special About the Prophet 08?

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith's Iconic Synth: What's So Special About the Prophet 08? by Johnny Posh

Dave Smith's Iconic Synth: What's So Special About the Prophet 08?

Johnny Posh

Johnny Posh

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Prophet 08' | Mothership Gear by Ildefonso, Inc.

Dave Smith Prophet 08' | Mothership Gear

Ildefonso, Inc.

Ildefonso, Inc.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer.

Build quality

  • The original Prophet 08 had problematic rotary encoders; consider the 'PE' version with more reliable potentiometers for filter and envelope sections.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Prophet 08 offers extensive modulation possibilities with 4 LFOs and a third envelope, though it lacks sub oscillators found in the Rev2.

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  • Deepmind-12 provides above-average analog modulation and polyphony but lacks bitimbral mode and has two fewer LFOs than the Prophet 08.

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  • Prophet Rev2 is essentially a Prophet 08 with added sub oscillators, saw-to-triangle morph, 16 voice expansion, and effects.

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  • The Prophet 12 enables audio-rate modulation of any parameter using any source, offering advanced modulation capabilities beyond the Prophet 08.

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Use cases and applications

  • Commonly used for stabs, brass, sequences, pads, keys, and leads; capable of producing unique acoustic-like guitar and harp sounds.

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  • The Prophet 12 is favored for live performances due to its modulation capabilities, allowing any parameter to be controlled via sliders, mod wheel, or pedals.

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User experience

  • Owners report the keybed as functional but not as smooth as Yamaha FS; some keys may fail after extensive use.

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  • Owners highlight that the Prophet 12 can be overwhelming for beginners due to its vast sound design capabilities, while the Prophet 6 offers a more straightforward experience.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Effects like a Zoom ms70 CDR can enhance sound since the Prophet 08 lacks built-in FX.

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Comparisons

  • While the Rev2 includes sub oscillators for better low-end, the Prophet 08 offers a distinctive sound within the DSI family, favored by artists like James Blake.

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  • The DSI Mopho X4 shares the Prophet 08’s voice architecture but offers 4 voices, 44 keys, and includes a sub oscillator.

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  • A Take5 offers built-in effects and FM but only 5 voices and a 44-keybed, contrasting with the Prophet 08's 8 voices and 61 keys.

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  • The Prophet 6 is praised for its intuitive interface and large sweet spot, making it difficult to create bad sounds, unlike the more versatile but complex Prophet 08 and 12.

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Value and pricing

  • The Rev2 is noted as a cost-effective alternative to the Prophet 08, with many of the same features and potential for a 16-voice expansion.

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Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08

soundonsound.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 revives the revered Prophet lineage with impressive authenticity, delivering a rich, warm analogue sound that feels both nostalgic and modern. While it's a joy to play and offers a flexible, hands-on programming experience, minor issues like slightly wobbly encoders and a limited arpeggiator don't detract from its overall appeal. The lack of a built-in chorus and keypad might be missed by some, but the synth's excellent value and lack of direct competition make it a compelling choice for those seeking the classic Prophet charm in a contemporary package.

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