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John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer

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Page last updated Aug 10, 2025

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Dive into a world of sonic exploration with the John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer, a powerhouse for both studio magicians and live performers. This synthesizer is a culmination of John Bowen's extensive experience in sound design, offering a comprehensive suite of features that cater to both classic and modern soundscapes. With a 61-key semi-weighted keyboard, the Solaris delivers an expressive playing experience, while its robust architecture offers unparalleled versatility.

At the heart of the Solaris is a unique combination of digital and analog synthesis techniques. It features four oscillators, each capable of generating a myriad of waveforms, from traditional analog waves to complex digital spectra. This flexibility is further enhanced by a powerful modulation matrix, offering nearly limitless ways to shape and evolve your sound.

The Solaris also boasts a comprehensive set of filters, including 24 different types, from classic analog models to cutting-edge digital designs. This allows musicians to sculpt their sound with precision and creativity. Its intuitive interface, complete with a high-resolution display, ensures easy navigation through its extensive array of parameters, perfect for both live tweaking and studio precision.

Whether you're crafting lush pads, intricate sequences, or earth-shaking basses, the John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer is your gateway to a universe of sound possibilities.

Key Features:

61-key semi-weighted keyboard
Four oscillators with extensive waveform capabilities
24 filter types, including analog and digital models
Comprehensive modulation matrix
High-resolution display for intuitive navigation
Extensive sound-shaping options for versatile sound design

Videos

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musictrackjp

JohnBowen SOLARIS Demo&Review [English Captions]

musictrackjp

John Bowen Solaris - A Quick Sample of Factory Presets

zibbybone

John Bowen Solaris | Epic, Enormous & Expensive

Espen Kraft

SOLARIS (John Bowen) Synthesizer - 100 Brian Kehew Presets - demo demonstration

OFR

John Bowen SOLARIS Demo of tweaking, sound design and some patches

synthlegends

Reviews

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Critic Reviews

John Bowen Synth Design Solaris

soundonsound.com

The John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer is an ambitious virtual-analogue hardware synth that dazzles with its sound quality and flexibility. Its modular-like architecture offers an impressive array of oscillators and filters, making it a powerhouse for sound designers. However, its complex interface and limited polyphony might intimidate those seeking simplicity and multitimbral capabilities. While the effects section feels underpowered, and the price is steep, the Solaris rewards those who invest time in mastering its intricacies. A labor of love, it shines particularly in its unique sound creation, standing out as a significant, albeit niche, instrument.

positive

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John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

John Bowen's Solaris Synthesizer is a powerhouse of sound design capability, boasting superb sonic quality and an adaptable design. Its standout features include ribbon and joystick control, and a versatile array of oscillators and filters. However, at a hefty price tag, some might expect more than just 10-note polyphony and limited native effects. The synthesizer's complexity might not suit everyone, but those willing to invest time will unlock its potential as a co-creative tool. Overall, Solaris is a serious investment for serious sound designers.

positive

Full Review

John Bowen Solaris - a life's work - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

The John Bowen Solaris Synthesizer is hailed as a digital powerhouse, offering a fusion of classic synth designs with modern flexibility. With its impressive sound quality and intuitive interface, it stands out as a programmer's dream, inviting creativity with every feature. However, some may find its reliance on an external power supply and lack of internal memory cumbersome. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Solaris is celebrated for its vast sonic possibilities, making it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians. Ultimately, it's a love-it-or-hate-it instrument, but its potential is undeniable.

positive

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