Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $700
Standard/Professional
$500
$1501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Dive into the world of synthesis with the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 PE, an exceptional piece of gear that combines classic analog warmth with modern features. This 61-key synthesizer is built for musicians who crave the rich textures and flexibility of an 8-voice polyphonic instrument. Each of its voices features an impressive pair of DCOs and resonant low-pass filters, ensuring a wide range of sonic possibilities from lush pads to punchy basses and searing leads. The Prophet 08 PE is designed with performance in mind, offering a perfect balance of hands-on control and expressive sound shaping.
The front panel is equipped with 52 knobs, giving you immediate access to a deep array of parameters for real-time tweaking. The integrated arpeggiator and step sequencer expand your creative potential, while the velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard makes sure your expressive playing is captured in every note. Whether you're in the studio or on stage, the Prophet 08 PE is a versatile tool for any synthesist seeking classic sounds with a modern twist.
Key Features:
- 61-key velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard
- 8-voice polyphony with two DCOs per voice
- 52 knobs for hands-on control
- Resonant low-pass filters per voice
- Onboard arpeggiator and step sequencer
- Four LFOs and three envelope generators per voice
- MIDI In, Out, and Thru
- Stereo outputs and sustain pedal input
Product specs
| Brand | Dave Smith Instruments |
| Model | Prophet 08 PE 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer |
| Year | 2009 - 2015 |
| 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
-
What makes the Prophet 08 PE different from the standard Prophet 08?
-
The Prophet 08 PE (Potentiometer Edition) features vintage-style potentiometer controls for a more tactile experience, whereas the standard version primarily uses rotary encoders.
-
Is the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 PE suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, the Prophet 08 PE is well-suited for live performances with its 61 semi-weighted keys and robust build, offering reliable polyphonic analog sound.
-
How does the polyphony of the Prophet 08 PE enhance its sound capabilities?
-
With 8-voice polyphony, the Prophet 08 PE allows for complex chord structures and layered sounds, making it ideal for both lush pads and intricate sequences.
-
Does the Prophet 08 PE integrate well with modern DAWs?
-
Yes, the Prophet 08 PE integrates smoothly with modern DAWs through its MIDI In, Out, and Thru ports, ensuring seamless connectivity for studio setups.
-
What type of keys does the Prophet 08 PE have?
-
The Prophet 08 PE features 61 full-size, semi-weighted keys, providing a comfortable and responsive playing experience for both studio and live use.
Videos
Johnny Posh
Dave Smith's Iconic Synth: What's So Special About the Prophet 08?
Reviews
PROS
-
Highly versatile, capable of producing a wide range of sounds
-
Analog design offers hands-on control and deep sound customization
-
No extensive menu diving for sound adjustments
-
Presets are notably impressive and diverse
-
Deep modulation matrix with multiple LFOs and routable envelope generator
-
Knob-per-function layout enhances ease of use and live performance adaptability
-
Durable metal construction and reliable electronics
-
Lightweight and compact for easy transportation
-
Pressure sensitivity enhances expressive playing
-
Competitive price point for its capabilities and build quality
CONS
-
Lacks onboard effects, requiring external units for live performances
-
No sub-oscillator, limiting deep bass options
-
Absence of sine wave waveform for specific sound needs
-
Octave settings not stored in presets, causing potential live performance issues
-
Uses a wall wart power supply, complicating stage setups
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 PE 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer.
Features and functionality
-
The Prophet 08's original rotary encoders are prone to failure; the 'PE' version offers more reliable potentiometers for filters and envelopes.
Source -
The Prophet 08 has 4 LFOs and a 3rd envelope, offering extensive modulation possibilities, although it requires patience to achieve desired sounds.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Owners use the Prophet 08 for unique brass, stabs, pads, and acoustic-like guitar and harp sounds, despite its lack of onboard FX.
Source
Comparisons
-
The Rev2 offers sub oscillators for enhanced bass and low-end sounds, a noted advantage over the original Prophet 08.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Using an external effects unit, like a Zoom ms70 CDR, compensates for the Prophet 08's lack of onboard FX.
Source
User experience
-
Some Prophet 08 units have velocity recognition issues, with notes playing at full volume despite adjustments to velocity curves.
Source -
Owners report exceptional customer service, including free replacement parts like knobs and wood sides, even for equipment purchased second-hand.
Source -
Voice drop detection can be identified by a stuck calibration on a specific voice or by playing multiple notes and noticing one is missing.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Sequential offers out-of-warranty repairs for a fixed price of $25, which includes parts but requires users to perform the labor themselves.
Source
Setup and maintenance
-
Calibration issues can be addressed via Sequential's troubleshooting guides and resetting calibration data from a hidden debug menu.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
More Dave Smith Instruments Synthesizers
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-