Pricing and availability

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Average Price: $1,601

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Future Retro 777 is a monophonic analog synthesizer with a digital sequencer. The 777 is a sleek retro design that has realized the full potential of the monophonic pattern based synth. It's not just another TB-303 emulator. It uses analog circuitry and has a lot of hands-on knobs for instant sound tweaking. And while the 777 has extensive editing and modulation abilities, the layout is as basic and intuitive as an old SH-101 or MC-202! The 777 functions quite well as either a standalone bass sequencer or as a sound module in a MIDI environment. Two oscillators (A / B) produce a fat bass sound. Modulation abilities are quite complex, the oscillators themselves can modulate each other for example. The filter is very nice with switchable 3 or 7 pole slopes as well as other sound shaping controls for a wide range of tones. An external sound can be routed through the filter too. The sequencer, OSC B and the decay envelope can also modulate the filter cutoff. The 777 also employs a smart accent effect for that extra bit o' kick in your bassline. As a sequencer the 777 shines once again. Bear in mind that this sequencer accommodates a monophonic (single tone) instrument which normally has very basic sequencing needs. Notes are entered using the pseudo-keyboard buttons. Programming is different than other synth / grooveboxes of similar function but is relatively easy to master. Up to 256 patterns can be linked to form up to 16 songs all of which remain in memory. And of course all real-time editing can be recorded into your sequence and are also MIDI controllable. Final goodies include an internal MIDI to CV-gate converter, glide or portamento effects, distortion, chorus and phase effects and more!

Product specs

Brand Future Retro
Model 777 Analog Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Analog Synths, Desktop Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Future Retro FR-777 use?

The Future Retro FR-777 is an analog synthesizer, known for its rich, warm tones that are characteristic of analog circuitry.

Is the Future Retro FR-777 polyphonic or monophonic?

The Future Retro FR-777 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play one note at a time, which is ideal for basslines and lead melodies.

What MIDI connectivity options does the Future Retro FR-777 offer?

The Future Retro FR-777 features both MIDI input and output, allowing it to be easily integrated into a MIDI setup for control and sequencing.

What are some standout features of the Future Retro FR-777's sound engine?

The Future Retro FR-777 is renowned for its unique filter and modulation capabilities, offering extensive control over its sound shaping for creative and dynamic analog tones.

Is the Future Retro FR-777 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Future Retro FR-777 is well-suited for live performances due to its hands-on controls and robust build, allowing musicians to tweak sounds in real-time.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Future Retro FR-777.

Features and functionality

  • The reissue is expected to have an improved sequencer, with emphasis on adding a customizable swing option to avoid mechanical sound issues.

    Source
  • The sequencer is considered antiquated by some users, with an upgrade requiring a new chip that is currently unavailable.

    Source

Build quality

  • The reissue required a complete redesign for manufacturing, indicating significant changes in internal components and assembly process compared to the original.

    Source

User experience

  • Attendees at Knobcon 2023 reported seeing working units, but production delays have pushed the release to late 2024, suggesting patience is required for interested buyers.

    Source
  • There is a strong sentimental value associated with the FR-777, making it a sought-after item despite its impracticality for some modern users.

    Source
  • Owners describe the FR-777 as having a very distinct industrial sound, capable of producing fat, aggressive bass tones that are hard to replicate with modern softsynths.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • There is anticipation for a true analog reissue at a reasonable price, avoiding the high costs associated with vintage models.

    Source
  • The FR-777 was originally sold for $777, but due to its rarity with only 678 units produced, it can sell for upwards of $2,300 in today's market.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The original 777 was unique at its release, but now faces more competition, making its reissue's market demand uncertain without significant improvements.

    Source
  • The Yamaha SPX50D is a suggested alternative for users seeking the FX500's Soft Focus reverb patch, with additional recommendations for Lexicon LXP units.

    Source
  • Although highly valued, the FR-777 faces competition from recent analog monosynths, affecting its desirability despite its unique sound capabilities.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Future Retro plans to sell upgrade chips for the sequencer, but availability is uncertain, leaving current owners waiting.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The onboard sequencer is noted for producing classic step-sequenced squelchy bass sounds, popular in electronic music production.

    Source
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
L

TB 303 On Steroids

Another one of those classic boxes that are unique in sound. This acid driven box has TB 303 enthousiasts turning heads as it's filter is rougher and quirkier. I take it out with my live sets occasionally as a nice addition. Think dark tunnels, strobes and smoke machines and you get the gist of what kind of sound this box makes..

G

my big love

The best baseline ever.. awesome sound.. acid, rough, and really analog.. a real bad boy

acid
acid

393

My FR-777

My FR-777 has s/n 029 form about 670 ever made :)

Artist usage

Add artist
See how The Chemical Brothers uses Future Retro FR-777

The Chemical Brothers

Music Producer

The Chemical Brothers

...
Verified via Soundonsound

We also recorded the SMPTE timecode track for reference, and direct outs from the on-stage console of the more important instruments that feature heavily, like Elektron Drum Machine and Future Retro 777.

See how Étienne de Crécy uses Future Retro FR-777

Étienne de Crécy

Music Producer, DJ

Motorbass

...
Verified via YouTube

Etienne de Crecy's studio – 2015 The FR-777 is next to the ROLAND TB-03, just on the left of Etienne de Crecy

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 Future Retro FR-777, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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