Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (1)
$1,289.00
Guitar Center
$1,289.00
Amazon
$1,289.00
Reverb
$1,121.31 New
$1,179.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$1,289.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$1,289.00
Thomann
4.5 (10)
$1,099.00 $1,090.00 $9.00 · All time low
Vintage King
$1,289.00

Average Price: $1,236

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

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Standard

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Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Erica Synths Steampipe 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Erica Synths Steampipe 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer is a masterclass in innovative sound design, merging the essence of wind and string instruments with a groundbreaking physical modeling engine. Developed in collaboration with 112db.com, this synthesizer abandons traditional oscillators, allowing for the creation of a wide array of sounds, from lifelike wind instruments to ethereal ambient textures. With 8-voice polyphony, Steampipe invites you to explore an expansive sonic universe, shaped by its unique architecture that includes the Steam, Pipe, and Reverberator sections. These components work together to produce rich, organic overtones and expressive timbres, making it ideal for both experimental soundscapes and traditional instrument emulation.

The Steampipe’s versatility extends to its comprehensive modulation options, featuring five assignable LFOs and an extensive modulation matrix. This allows for intricate sound sculpting and expressive MIDI integration, complete with MPE compatibility for nuanced performances. With 64 factory presets and room for 192 user presets, your creative potential is virtually limitless. Whether you're harnessing its capabilities with a wind MIDI controller or standard MIDI keyboard, the Steampipe’s MIDI CC controllable parameters ensure seamless integration into any setup.

Key Features:

  • 8-voice polyphonic architecture with no conventional oscillators
  • Physical modeling engine with 32 adjustable parameters
  • Five assignable LFOs with delay and sync
  • Extensive modulation matrix with MIDI controller-specific configurations
  • 64 factory presets and 192 user preset memory
  • MIDI CC controllable parameters
  • USB-MIDI support with preset export/import capabilities
  • Dual-function MIDI out/thru and 5-pin DIN MIDI input
  • Includes external power supply (12V DC)

Product specs

Type Modeling Synthesizer
Analog/Digital Digital
Polyphony 8-voice
Presets 64 x Factory, 192 x User
Noise Generator 5 x OC/Noise
Envelope Generator Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release, Keytrack, Velocity
LFO 5 x LFOs (assignable)
Filter Lowpass/Highpass
Effects Types Reverberator, Delay, Sync
Analog Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Analog Outputs 2 x 1/4" (left, right)
Headphones 1 x 1/4" TRS
MIDI I/O In/Out/Thru/USB
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" (sustain)
USB 1 x Type A
Power Supply 12V DC Power Supply (included)

FAQs

Is the Erica Synths Steampipe 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Erica Synths Steampipe is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously for rich, layered sounds.

What type of synthesis does the Erica Synths Steampipe use?

The Erica Synths Steampipe utilizes digital modeling synthesis, offering a wide range of sound design possibilities with its unique algorithms.

How many presets are available on the Erica Synths Steampipe?

The Erica Synths Steampipe comes with 64 factory presets and allows for 192 user presets, giving you ample space to save your custom sounds.

What are the main effects included in the Erica Synths Steampipe?

The Erica Synths Steampipe features built-in effects such as reverberator, delay, and sync, enhancing your sound with depth and texture.

Does the Erica Synths Steampipe support external MIDI devices?

Yes, the Erica Synths Steampipe offers MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB connectivity, making it easy to integrate with external MIDI devices and DAWs.

What connectivity options does the Erica Synths Steampipe offer?

The Erica Synths Steampipe includes analog inputs and outputs (1/4"), a headphone output, MIDI I/O, USB, and a pedal input for sustain, providing versatile connectivity for various setups.

Is the power supply included with the Erica Synths Steampipe?

Yes, the Erica Synths Steampipe comes with a 12V DC power supply, ensuring you have everything needed to power the unit right out of the box.

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique sound palette with organic, inspiring tones not found in typical synths

  • High-quality build and design, aesthetically pleasing and technically robust

  • Intuitive, direct interface without complex menus enhances spontaneous creation

  • Excellent integration potential with various musical setups

  • Versatile physical modeling for diverse sound exploration

  • Strong potential for experimental soundscapes and acoustic textures

  • Pre-installed MIDI mapping simplifies connectivity and setup

  • Offers a wide range of beautiful sweet spots in sound design

  • Distinctive four-block architecture for creative sound manipulation

  • Encourages exploration and innovation in sound creation

CONS

  • Mono output limits stereo soundscapes without additional processing

  • Complex parameter navigation without a visual display

  • Requires time to master due to intricate sound modeling

  • Sweet spots can be elusive, requiring patience to discover

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Erica Synths Steampipe 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer.

Features and functionality

  • The LFOs could benefit from a 'one shot/single cycle' mode with optional delay, as current modulation lacks granularity at lower values.

    Source
  • The lack of a dedicated pitch envelope limits micro pitch modulation, which could be improved with one-shot LFOs or external MIDI control.

    Source
  • The existing architecture doesn't favor classic synth pad sounds but excels in polyphonic plucked tones, like acoustic guitar sounds with reverb.

    Source
  • The Steampipe's integration with external audio sources, like the Nord Drum 3P, is a unique capability highlighted by users planning to use this setup for enhanced sound design.

    Source

Build quality

  • Constructed with solid knobs that set a standard for other synths; however, its lightweight build relative to size may surprise some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Best suited for EWI and MPE players, providing unique sound possibilities that normal keyboards may not fully exploit.

    Source
  • While excellent for flute and pipe sounds, the Steampipe also creates lush, washed-out dark ambiences, suitable for experimental tones beyond traditional demos.

    Source
  • It's suggested that the Steampipe pairs well with expressive MIDI controllers, like the Osmose, to fully leverage its sound capabilities and physical modeling.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the simple user interface and immediate LFO access, although the synthesizer's large footprint requires ample desk space.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users compare the Steampipe to Mutable Instruments' Elements, noting it offers more polyphony, making it a strong contender for those into physical modeling synthesis.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Several users are surprised by the Steampipe's price point, considering it to be more affordable compared to other high-end Erica Synths products like the Perkons drum machine.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some users recommend trying out the Sculpture synth in Logic as a software alternative to explore similar sounds before committing to the Steampipe hardware purchase.

    Source

Critic Reviews

“One of the most organic, alive-feeling synths I’ve tried – even if it occasionally feels like it’s trying to pick a fight”: Erica Synths Steampipe review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Erica Synths' Steampipe synthesizer offers an intriguing blend of digital physical modeling, particularly excelling with wind and string instrument emulations. Its hands-on controls and expressive capabilities are praised, providing a vibrant and organic feel despite its digital nature. However, the unpredictable behavior of the Pipe resonator and the absence of an integrated expressive playing surface could deter some users. While it shines with expressive MIDI controllers, its steep price and occasional unpredictability might not justify it as a go-to synth for everyone. Overall, Steampipe is an adventurous tool for those willing to explore its quirks.

Erica Synths Steampipe

soundonsound.com

Erica Synths' Steampipe 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer ventures into uncharted territory with its unique approach to physical modeling synthesis, eschewing traditional oscillators for a feedback loop system akin to the Karplus-Strong algorithm. Its robust build, intuitive interface, and MPE compatibility make it an enticing option for synth enthusiasts looking for innovation. However, its steep €1000 price tag might be a barrier for those not deeply invested in experimental sound design. Overall, it's a compelling choice for those seeking new sonic frontiers.

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