Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

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

The Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer is where the revered past meets the vibrant present. This eight-voice polyphonic synthesizer doesn’t just nod to its iconic ancestors from the 70s and 80s; it strides forward, embracing modern innovation. With a 100% analog signal path, the Prophet '08 delivers the lush, powerful tones that analog enthusiasts crave, all while introducing a host of new features that expand its sonic palette far beyond its predecessors.

The Prophet '08 is crafted for musicians who demand more than nostalgia. Its 52 tactile knobs invite hands-on interaction, giving you full control over its dual oscillators, Curtis lowpass filter, and VCA architecture. Dive into deep modulation with four LFOs, three envelopes, and a gated sequencer per voice, and explore limitless creativity with its robust performance features, including a four-mode latchable arpeggiator. Whether you want to stack sounds for rich textures or split them for complex arrangements, the Prophet '08 offers two layers per program, ensuring your sonic landscape is as versatile as your imagination.

Musicians will appreciate the expressive five-octave keyboard complete with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, while the pitch and mod wheels facilitate dynamic performances. With its sleek design, featuring wood end caps and intuitive layout, the Prophet '08 is as much a joy to play as it is to listen to.

Key Features:

  • Eight voices with full analog signal path
  • 52 knobs for complete sound manipulation
  • Four LFOs, three envelopes, and gated sequencer per voice
  • Two layers per program for stacking or splitting sounds
  • 4-mode latchable arpeggiator
  • 5-octave keyboard with velocity and aftertouch
  • Analog step sequencer for creative sequencing
  • Classic design with wood end caps and intuitive controls

Product specs

Brand Dave Smith Instruments
Model Prophet 08 PE 61-Key 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Finish Black with Wood Sides
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

Is the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer polyphonic?

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

What type of sound engine does the Prophet '08 use?

The Prophet '08 features an all-analog audio path with digital control, offering rich, warm analog sounds with the convenience of digital parameter management.

What are the key differences between the Prophet '08 and the Prophet '08 PE?

The Prophet '08 PE (Potentiometer Edition) uses potentiometers for rotary controls, providing a more vintage-style tactile experience compared to the standard Prophet '08, which primarily uses rotary encoders.

How does the Prophet '08 handle MIDI connectivity?

The Prophet '08 offers comprehensive MIDI connectivity with MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it easy to integrate into any MIDI-based setup.

Does the Prophet '08 offer different playing modes?

Yes, the Prophet '08 features three playing modes: uniform eight-voice, split mode for dividing the keyboard between two sounds, and stacked mode for layered four-voice textures.

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet Rev2 Presets

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet Rev2 Presets by Perfect Circuit

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet Rev2 Presets

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet'08 Demo&Review [English Captions] by musictrackjp

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet'08 Demo&Review [English Captions]

musictrackjp

musictrackjp

Video thumbnail for Morgan Page on the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 by MusicRadar Tech

Morgan Page on the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08

MusicRadar Tech

MusicRadar Tech

Video thumbnail for 15 minutes of Prophet 08 (no talking, just tweaking) by william paiva

15 minutes of Prophet 08 (no talking, just tweaking)

william paiva

william paiva

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 Walkthrough by Starsky Carr

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 Walkthrough

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 Demo by Panu M Savolainen

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 Demo

Panu M Savolainen

Panu M Savolainen

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 Synth Stuff Ep. 53 - Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08 by tritonrecordings

Synth Stuff Ep. 53 - Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08

tritonrecordings

tritonrecordings

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Prophet 08 Synthesizer - Synth-Pop Demo, by al l bo by Alexander Biber

Dave Smith Prophet 08 Synthesizer - Synth-Pop Demo, by al l bo

Alexander Biber

Alexander Biber

Reviews

PROS

  • Extremely flexible and versatile sound

  • Knob-per-function programmability enhances live performance

  • High-quality, warm, and clear sound output

  • Deep modulation matrix with four independent LFOs

  • Durable, rugged build with metal case

  • Eight-voice polyphony for complex sounds

  • Bitimbral capability, allowing split and layered sounds

  • Large program storage space

  • Reliable electronics suitable for road and studio

  • Unique sequencer and classic Curtis filter for creative sound design

CONS

  • No on-board effects, necessitating external solutions for live use

  • Lack of a sub-oscillator can limit deep bass production

  • No sine wave waveform, despite workarounds

  • Preset programs do not store octave settings, causing live performance issues

  • Requires a wall wart due to DC onboard power supply, complicating setup

  • Curtis filter may not inspire all users

  • Limited space for saving presets

  • Update and backup via MIDI SysEx is outdated

  • Occasional noise artifacts

  • Support needed for reliability issues

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 Synthesizer.

Comparisons

  • The Prophet '08's multitimbrality is less flexible compared to the DSI Tetra, which offers more versatile combo implementations.

    Source
  • The DSI Mopho X4 shares the Prophet '08's voice architecture but is limited to 4 voices and 44 keys, and includes a sub oscillator for enhanced bass.

    Source
  • The Take5 offers a shorter keybed (44 keys) and fewer voices (5) compared to the Prophet '08's 61 keys and 8 voices, affecting playability and sound complexity.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 is 19" rack compatible, unlike the Rev2 module, offering more flexible studio integration options.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 lacks sub oscillators present in the Rev2, which enhances low-end sound production out of the box.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Prophet '08's lowpass filter sound is polarizing; some users find it less appealing compared to other synth options like the Take5, impacting its suitability for certain styles.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 is praised for inspiring creative music production, with many owners using it extensively in their tracks.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 is noted for its unique sound profile, making it relevant for artists inspired by James Blake and Thom Yorke.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Take5 includes front-panel FM and built-in effects, contrasting with the Prophet '08's reliance on external effects for sound customization.

    Source
  • The Deepmind-12, while cheaper, lacks the Prophet '08's bitimbral mode and has fewer LFOs, but offers a superior IR3109-inspired filter for distinct tonal qualities.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 offers 4 LFOs and a 3rd envelope for extensive modulation options, useful for creating dynamic sounds.

    Source
  • The layer/split functionality of the Prophet '08 enhances live performance setups, allowing for versatile sound arrangements.

    Source
  • The Prophet '08 lacks built-in effects, making external effects units necessary for users who desire enhanced sound customization.

    Source
  • The original Prophet '08 PE version has replaced rotary encoders with more reliable potentiometers on the filter and envelope sections.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Second-hand Prophet '08 units can be found for as low as 700 euros, offering a budget-friendly entry into polyphonic synthesis.

    Source

User experience

  • The Prophet '08's filter is considered tricky for achieving standard "bread-and-butter" sounds, making it a more niche choice.

    Source
  • Some users experience issues with rotary encoders failing on older Prophet '08 models, which can be addressed by an upgrade kit.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users experience difficulty with note velocity recognition, where all notes output at full volume regardless of the velocity curve settings.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 08

soundonsound.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 is a triumphant return to form for the iconic Prophet line, blending vintage charm with modern flexibility. Its analog sound path delivers the warmth and depth enthusiasts crave, while the digital elements like snappy envelopes and versatile LFOs expand its capabilities beyond its predecessors. Although the arpeggiator and encoders could be improved, and a chorus effect is missed, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise stellar package. With its inviting interface and standout sound, the Prophet '08 is a must-have for those seeking classic analog vibes with a contemporary twist.

positive

Dave Smith Prophet 08 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer is hailed as a worthy successor to the iconic Prophet 5, offering a classy and compact design perfect for space-conscious setups. Musicians will appreciate its superb sound quality, flexible modulation options, and eight-voice polyphony, which supports splits and layering. The inclusion of aftertouch and a versatile sequencer adds to its appeal. However, the lack of real-time visibility of settings and the hard-to-read display are notable drawbacks. Despite this, its rich analogue sound makes it a dream for many keyboardists, ensuring it will be a popular choice.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 7 Reviews and 60 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
michael_r_johnson

Lush analog goodness

I love my Prophet 08. It sounds lush and deep and has many deep modulation possibilities, including a 4-track sequencer that can be used for notes or to modulate parameters. I also love that it’s bitimbral, you can split the keyboard and play one patch on the left side and another patch on the right, or layer the sounds. So many possibilities with this!

It loses one star for the less-than-inspiring Curtis filter, and a few random nitpicks about how things work. The after touch and expression pedal are inspiring to program and play.

Overall, I love it and I’ve used it on many albums.

matthew_mink

Biggest bang for buck synth on the market today

With 4 LFO's 3 Envelopes, 4 modulation sources, and a 2 and 4 db filter, you really cant find a more quality synth for less than $1000.

monotonne_band

Classic

A classic machine with a recognizable sound. It' s hard to add anything new.

ravieer

Great choice

This is the most creative piece of gear I have ever had. Incredible sequencer and classic curtis filter. It does not try to sound like the old Sequential gear too much. Its a more modern equipment for people who are looking for some inspiration.

eric_breslauer

Great sounding synth for the most part and a do-it-all beast, has a few small flaws sonically and functionally

For the most part it sounds great and ALIVE and the sound design possibilities are pretty amazing for an essentially analogue synth, only significant flaws are the need to install the potentiometer boards (it came with awful rotary encoders), an occasional bit of extra noise artifacts, and most annoyingly the rather small amount of space for saving presets and the need to update and backup via MIDI SysEx, which would've been acceptable in the 80's but makes no sense now.

A

Lush sounds with reliable support despite some issues

What a beast. Lush and rich harmonic sounds. Not so reliable, but i have to admit that insofar DSI have been behind their product and support works better than most.

andreabertolinidj

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

From 5 to 8... FAT!

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Deadmau5 uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Deadmau5

Music Producer

BSOD

...
Verified via YouTube

"And this is the Prophet 08, which I just got last week... one of Dave Smith's... culminations. Sounds pretty nice, pretty nice. Even got his autograph!"

See how Kevin Parker uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Kevin Parker

Singer, Guitarist

Tame Impala

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video Kevin Parker is playing the Prophet 08 REV2 in this collaboration with Theophilus London

See how Jonny Greenwood uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Jonny Greenwood

Guitarist

Radiohead

...
Verified via YouTube

During the performance of Lotus Flower, Jonny Greenwood at times plays the Prophet '08. The camera is on Thom Yorke for the most part, but you can see Jonny Greenwood playing it at 2:25.

See how Thom Yorke uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Thom Yorke

Singer, Guitarist

Radiohead

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of a Radiohead performance on SNL, Thom Yorke can be seen playing the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer.

See how Nicky Romero uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Nicky Romero

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

A Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 PE keyboard synthesizer sits on the middle support of a synthesizer rack in this photo of "New toysssssss!!!!!" uploaded by Nick Romero to his Facebook page on 11 March 2014.

See how Thomas DeLonge uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Thomas DeLonge

Singer, Guitarist

Blink-182

...
Verified via Photo

Tom has a prophet 08 in his studio in this photo

See how Tyler Joseph uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Tyler Joseph

Singer, Bassist

Twenty One Pilots

...
Verified via YouTube

At 31:40 You can see the Prophet 8

See how Above & Beyond uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Above & Beyond

Music Producer

Above & Beyond vs. Andy Moor

...
Verified via Twitter

"Lots of hardware synths - we just bought a prophet 08 which is lovely."

See how Jacob Collier uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Jacob Collier

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this recording of "Don't You Know" with Snarky Puppy, Jacob can be seen using the Prophet '08 with a harmonizer.

See how Carl Cox uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Carl Cox

Music Producer

The Carl Cox Concept

...
Verified via Loopmasters

On the Loopmasters page for "Carl Cox Collective - My Life In Music," it is noted that Carl Cox uses the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer.

See how Noisia uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Noisia

Music Producer

Noisia & Pacific

...
Verified via Instagram

At the beginning of this video, by Noisia, a Prophet 08 synth can be seen.

See how James Blake uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

James Blake

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

The label on the back of James' Prophet '08 can be seen at 6:02 in this video.

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 Prophet '08 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland Juno-106
Roland Juno-106 Synthesizers
10
Korg MS-20
Korg MS-20 Synthesizers
6
Roland Jupiter-6
Roland Jupiter-6 Synthesizers
3
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
3
Roland JD-800
Roland JD-800 Synthesizers
3
Roland AIRA TR-8
Roland AIRA TR-8 Drum Machines
3
Roland D-50
Roland D-50 Synthesizers
3
Moog Sub Phatty
Moog Sub Phatty Synthesizers
3

Community setups

Show yours
S

sniv

Gear IQ 57

jaris_roth

jaris_roth

Gear IQ 81

anaritzz

anaritzz

Gear IQ 96

auximenies

auximenies

Gear IQ 224

2 alternative and related items for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer, curated by the Equipboard community.

Dave Smith Instruments Sequential Prophet REV2

$2,432.00 - $2,861.93

newer similar sound

The Prophet Rev2 is the successor to the original Prophet '08, offering increased polyphony, and improvements to the user interface, onboard effects, onboard sequencer, and presets.

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Module 8-voice Analog Synthesizer

$1,107.99

Vintage or Discontinued similar sound cheaper alternative

If you don't need 61 more keys in your studio, save space and some $$$ with the desktop module version.

More Dave Smith Instruments Synthesizers

Sequential Prophet-6

$3,273.61 - $3,499.99

# 1

Rank

Kevin Parker Thom Yorke Mike Shinoda
168 artists using
Moog Grandmother

$999.00 - $1,084.00

# 4

Rank

Deadmau5 Dominic Fike Martin Garrix
52 artists using
Korg Minilogue

$411.00 - $699.99

# 12

Rank

Aphex Twin King Krule Misha Mansoor
132 artists using
Moog Subsequent 37

$1,467.63 - $1,899.00

# 14

Rank

Neil Halstead Skrillex Charlie Puth
68 artists using
Arturia MicroBrute

$298.35 - $652.00

# 15

Rank

John Dwyer Adrian Utley Jordan Rudess
64 artists using
Korg MicroKORG

$385.00 - $530.00

# 16

Rank

Kevin Parker Joe Duplantier Frank Iero
324 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides