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Average Price: $700

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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 Vitalic uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Vitalic

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

"I use it a lot on my second album, not too much on the 3rd one. I really like the way the filter sound".

See how HOMESHAKE uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

HOMESHAKE

Homeshake

...
Verified via YouTube

Pete's guitarist/keyboardist is clearly seen using a Prophet '08 at 1:08 and 1:30

See how Neon Indian uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Neon Indian

Music Producer

Neon Indian

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Leanne Macomber (Neon Indian) can be seen using the DSI Prophet 08 synthesizer.

See how C418 uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

C418

Music Producer

...
Verified via C418

On c418.org, under What does Daniel use to make music and under "My Hardware and synths" you can find Dave Smith Prophet-08, Rack Version listed.

See how Stimming uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Stimming

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

MARTIN STIMMING gives Electronic Beats TV a tour of his audio gear in this Slices Tech Talk. His set-up is based around Cubase and various analogue processors and synthesisers

See how Shlohmo uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Shlohmo

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Shlohmo uses this in his 10 minute against the clock beat for a bassline

See how Andrew Bayer uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Andrew Bayer

Music Producer

Nimmo & Bayer

...
Verified via Elektrodaily

In this elektro interview, Andrew Bayer is asked about his favorite piece of production equipment. He responds, "I have been really into my Profit 08 [sic] recently which is an analog synth. It’s essentially a modern approach on an analog synth, is really versatile and sounds awesome. For example, if you have ever listened to James Blake he uses it on all of his shit and it’s that very classic sort of polysynth sound. It’s just such a modern classic, and is definitely my favorite piece."

See how David August uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

David August

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

The Prophet is a classic which might be in a lot of producers’ studios. Beside the sound of the synth, which I would describe as clean, precise and less dirty than the Juno, it’s the endless options you have with the Prophet which blow me away. I’ve had it half a year now and it seems the new possibilities and new ways of creating a sound will never end.

See how Camo & Krooked uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Camo & Krooked

Music Producer

Camo & Krooked

...
Verified via Photo

An image posted by Camo & Krooked on their Instagram page displays the Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer and the following caption:

"New studio buddies! Prophet 08 and a 'Caravan' from the flea market:)"

See how Lemaitre uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Lemaitre

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, one of the musicians jamming with Lemaitre is playing a Prophet '08. The full keyboard removes any notion that it's one of the modular models, and the layout of the keys and wood panels on the side are consistent with the '08 Prophet.

See how Nigel Godrich uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Nigel Godrich

Music Producer

Radiohead

...
Verified via Thekingofgear

Goodrich can be seen in a photo towards the bottom of this page playing a Dave Smith Prophet 08.

See how Marcus Schossow uses Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

Marcus Schossow

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 2:27 minutes see Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '08 Synthesizer

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
Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase Music Software
3
Roland Juno-60
Roland Juno-60 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
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

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Dave Smith Instruments Sequential Prophet REV2

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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

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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.

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