Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,261
Standard/Professional
$500
$1501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Erica Synths Steampipe Polyphonic Modeling Synthesizer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* 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
In collaboration with 112dB, Erica Synths presents the Steampipe Polyphonic Modeling Synthesizer, an innovative leap in sound design that marries the organic resonance of wind and string instruments with the limitless potential of MIDI-controlled synthesis. Dismissing the traditional oscillator approach, Steampipe employs a cutting-edge physical modeling engine to mimic the sonic behaviors of real instruments while exploring new sonic territories. Its architecture is divided into three sections: Steam, Pipe, and Reverberator, each contributing to a rich palette of expressive, dynamic sounds that can range from lifelike to otherworldly.
The Steampipe's user-friendly interface is equipped with 32 adjustable parameters, giving you control over every nuance of your sound creation. Designed for use with both wind MIDI controllers and standard MIDI keyboards, this 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer is loaded with 64 factory presets and 192 user slots, ensuring you never run out of creative possibilities. With extensive modulation features, including 5 assignable LFOs and a robust modulation matrix, Steampipe invites deep exploration and experimentation. Seamless MIDI integration, including MPE compatibility, allows for expressive control and flexibility, making it a versatile tool for musicians seeking uncharted soundscapes.
Key Features:
- 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer with physical modeling engine
- 32 adjustable parameters for detailed sound shaping
- Three core sections: Steam, Pipe, and Reverberator
- 5 assignable LFOs and comprehensive modulation matrix
- 64 factory presets and 192 user-preset slots
- MPE compatibility for expressive playing
- 5-pin DIN MIDI input, MIDI Thru/Out, and USB-MIDI support
- All parameters are MIDI CC controllable.
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 synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?
-
The Erica Synths Steampipe is a polyphonic synthesizer with 8-voice polyphony, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously.
-
What types of effects are included in the Erica Synths Steampipe?
-
The Steampipe synthesizer includes reverberator, delay, and sync effects, providing a range of sound modulation options.
-
How many user presets can I store on the Erica Synths Steampipe?
-
You can store up to 192 user presets on the Erica Synths Steampipe, in addition to 64 factory presets.
-
What are the main connectivity options for the Erica Synths Steampipe?
-
The Steampipe features analog inputs and outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB, and a sustain pedal input, offering versatile connectivity for various setups.
-
Does the Erica Synths Steampipe come with a power supply?
-
Yes, the Erica Synths Steampipe includes a 12V DC power supply.
Videos
Erica Synths
Erica Synths x 112db STEAMPIPE sound demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Erica Synths Steampipe Polyphonic Modeling Synthesizer.
Use cases and applications
-
Steampipe excels at producing non-traditional sounds like ambient atmospheres and unusual timbral variations, making it ideal for cinematic sound design.
Source -
The synth's design encourages using it for sounds distinct from subtractive synthesis, maximizing its unique sound design potential.
Source -
The Steampipe is highly regarded for its percussive sound capabilities, making it a preferred choice for users focused on producing unique percussive textures.
Source -
It supports MPE and extensive MIDI mapping, enhancing expressive performance capabilities, especially with wind controllers and MPE keyboards.
Source -
Ideal for MPE or EWI players, the Steampipe excels in creating unique sounds, less so for traditional keyboard users.
Source
Features and functionality
-
The Steampipe includes five LFOs, which users appreciate for the extensive modulation possibilities they enable.
Source -
The Steampipe offers 192 preset slots, which some users find insufficient given the synth's expansive capabilities and potential for sound exploration.
Source -
Despite its digital nature, the Steampipe avoids deep menu diving, favoring hands-on control with intuitive knob layouts.
Source -
The synth is fully polyphonic with 8 voices, each containing its own exciter and resonator, contrary to paraphonic setups.
Source -
The Steampipe's architecture is based on the Karplus-Strong model, using filtered noise as an exciter into a tuned delay line resonator for sound generation.
Source -
There's a desire for single-cycle LFOs with delay to enhance sound modulation without changing the interface.
Source -
The Steampipe lacks a dedicated pitch envelope; micro pitch movements rely on external MIDI controllers.
Source
User experience
-
Some users find the Steampipe's price and size excessive for a digital synth, but its sound quality justifies these aspects for many enthusiasts.
Source -
The built-in reverb is praised for its beauty and expressiveness, enhancing the synth's lush sound profile.
Source -
Some knobs affect pitch unexpectedly, necessitating the use of an auto-tune feature post-adjustment to maintain tuning stability.
Source -
Some users find the Steampipe more of a specialized tool rather than a versatile synth, best suited for experimental tones and textures.
Source
Comparisons
-
The physical modeling engine in the Steampipe is noted as superior to that in the Waldorf Iridium, offering richer and more detailed sound possibilities.
Source -
While the Steampipe offers lush ambient sounds, traditional synths like the Korg Multi-poly might be preferable for versatile ambient soundscapes.
Source
Build quality
-
The knobs on the Steampipe are praised for their stability, setting a high standard for synth manufacturers.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Erica Synths Synthesizers
Accessories & Related Items
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Synthesizers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-