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Average Price: $921

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Semi modular analog synthesizer

The MFB Dominion 1 is a programmable analogue synthesizer with a three octave keyboard . Similar to the Dominion X in scope, it combines the beauty of analogue synthesis with advanced programmability and complex modular patching. The Dominion 1 features three VCOs with sliding variations in waveforms , for example turning a triangle wave into a sine wave. A noise channel or additional external audio input may be combined with the signal path via the mixer, maximising the output potential of this powerful synth.

There are 12 operation modes for the filters found on the Dominion 1, including four LPF with variable db/octave slopes, two HPF, band pass and notch filters, again with variable cut off slopes. The two LFOs offer six waveforms including sample and hold and can be applied to the VCO, VCF and VCA.

The Dominion 1 also features two ribbon controls , a 128 stage step sequencer with 128 programmable patches and sequences, velocity and aftertouch, analogue and digital ring modulation, dual-sync and dynamic FM, velocity routing-matrix and three envelopes with 70mm faders.

The MFB Dominion 1 outputs via balanced TRS and has MIDI I/O on 5-pin DIN connectors.

Product specs

Brand MFB
Model Dominion 1
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 32 Keys
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

Is the MFB Dominion 1 synthesizer monophonic or polyphonic?

The MFB Dominion 1 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play one note at a time, which is ideal for basslines and lead sounds.

What type of synthesis does the MFB Dominion 1 use?

The MFB Dominion 1 is an analog synthesizer, offering rich, warm sounds characteristic of analog circuitry.

How many keys does the MFB Dominion 1 have and what is the key action like?

The MFB Dominion 1 features 32 full-size keys with synth action, providing a responsive feel suitable for expressive play.

Does the MFB Dominion 1 have MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the MFB Dominion 1 includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, allowing for easy integration with other MIDI-compatible devices.

What are some notable features of the MFB Dominion 1's sound engine?

The MFB Dominion 1 boasts a versatile sound engine with multiple oscillators, a multimode filter, and extensive modulation options, enabling a wide range of sound design possibilities.

sonicstate

sonicstate

MFB Dominion 1 Synthesizer Review

Video thumbnail for MFB Dominion 1 Synthesizer Review by sonicstate

MFB Dominion 1 Synthesizer Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Friday Fun - Roland D-05 and MFB Dominion 1 by sonicstate

Friday Fun - Roland D-05 and MFB Dominion 1

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for MFB Dominion 1 | Great for synth bass by Espen Kraft

MFB Dominion 1 | Great for synth bass

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Video thumbnail for Korg Mono/Poly VS Mfb Dominion 1 [ SOUND COMPARISON ] by Supah Dupah

Korg Mono/Poly VS Mfb Dominion 1 [ SOUND COMPARISON ]

Supah Dupah

Supah Dupah

Video thumbnail for MFB Dominion 1 Analog Synthesizer | Gear4music demo by Gear4music Guitars

MFB Dominion 1 Analog Synthesizer | Gear4music demo

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Video thumbnail for BOOcast - Synth of the Month: MFB Dominion 1 by Battery Operated Orchestra

BOOcast - Synth of the Month: MFB Dominion 1

Battery Operated Orchestra

Battery Operated Orchestra

Video thumbnail for MOOG SLIM PHATTY VS MFB DOMINION 1 by leon nine

MOOG SLIM PHATTY VS MFB DOMINION 1

leon nine

leon nine

Video thumbnail for MAGICAL Filter || Dominion 1 review & tutorial #2 by Dave Mech

MAGICAL Filter || Dominion 1 review & tutorial #2

Dave Mech

Dave Mech

Video thumbnail for MFB DOMINION 1 SEQUENCED BY ELEKTRON DIGITAKT by leon nine

MFB DOMINION 1 SEQUENCED BY ELEKTRON DIGITAKT

leon nine

leon nine

Video thumbnail for MFB DOMINION 1 - TIPS N TRICKS 1 - turning dom 1 into a 4 oscillator synth. by leon nine

MFB DOMINION 1 - TIPS N TRICKS 1 - turning dom 1 into a 4 oscillator synth.

leon nine

leon nine

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique sound quality, rivals vintage 80's Moog, Korg, Roland

  • Modular friendly with 30+ Eurorack patch points

  • 128 patch storage/presets for sound versatility

  • Features 3 VCO, VCF, VCA with analog ring modulation and waveshaping

  • SED analog filter with 12 types for extensive sound shaping

  • Fatar 3 octave keyboard with velocity, aftertouch, and 12 modulation settings

  • Includes arpeggiator and step sequencer for complex compositions

  • Dual sync, FM, noise generator add depth to sound creation

  • Two ADSR and one AD envelope with variable speeds for precise sound tailoring

  • LFO 1 and 2 with 6 waveforms, LFO 3 assignable to ribbon controllers

CONS

  • Discontinued, making it difficult to find

  • Limited sound range compared to competitors like Matrixbrute

  • Single filter design seen as a drawback

  • Some users find the sound too similar across patches

  • Buttons and sliders considered unimpressive and could be improved

  • Envelopes could be snappier for better sound control

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about MFB Dominion 1.

Comparisons

  • Dominion 1's patchbay allows for external VCO, VCF, VCA, and envelope control, offering more versatility than traditional semi-modular synths like the Grandmother.

    Source
  • The Moog Grandmother has fewer oscillators and envelopes than the Dominion 1, making it less feature-rich and suited for those specifically seeking the 'Moog sound.'

    Source
  • While the Moog Grandmother is praised for its classic sound, the Dominion 1 is noted for deeper sound capabilities, allowing users to save their favorite sounds.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Due to currency fluctuations, it's more affordable at $1,350 USD compared to the previous $1,800, making it a timely purchase.

    Source
  • In Germany, the Dominion 1 is commonly available used for around €900-1000, offering strong value for its feature set compared to new prices.

    Source
  • The Dominion 1's rarity suggests it will retain its value well, making it a potentially sound investment despite company uncertainties.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners describe the sound as "big, fat, juicy, spacey," ideal for those seeking a unique tonal character without replicating classic synth sounds.

    Source
  • The Dominion 1 excels in producing bright sounds and is highly capable with basses and leads, complementing other synths like the Moog Matriarch for experimental uses.

    Source

User experience

  • It requires about 10 minutes to warm up for stable tuning, with tuning consistency noted between oscillators.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the Dominion 1’s ability to explore "crazy territories" with its rich feature set, offering a unique sound distinct from Moog's offerings.

    Source
  • Tuning sensitivity is influenced by room temperature more than other gear, suggesting a need for stable environmental conditions for optimal performance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Dominion 1’s analog ring modulator and resonance modulation are standout features, enhancing its versatility compared to other monosynths.

    Source
  • Dominion 1 has a shallow but unusual menu structure, and the LFOs cannot sync to MIDI clock; however, LFO2 can act as a fourth VCO.

    Source
  • The Dominion 1 offers assignable aftertouch and velocity for parameters like pulse width and LFO speed, enhancing expressiveness beyond what Moog Grandmother provides.

    Source
  • The Dominion 1's sound is less obviously analog, which may appeal to users seeking a different tonal character compared to more traditional analog synths.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners appreciate the sturdy build and quality feel of the keybed, noting it exceeds expectations for the price.

    Source
  • The filter resonance pot can behave erratically, and some pots react to nearby button presses, indicating potential issues with hardware reliability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Calibration procedures can be tricky; missteps may worsen tuning, especially affecting octave consistency, and require starting over each time.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sonic LAB: MFB Dominion 1 Synthesizer Review

sonicstate.com

The MFB Dominion 1 is a robust three-oscillator analog synthesizer that excels in sound versatility, from rich basslines to intricate cross-modulation tones. Its solid build features a 3-octave keyboard with velocity and aftertouch, complemented by an expansive modulation matrix. The 12-mode VCF offers diverse filtering options, and the patchbay allows seamless integration with modular setups. While it boasts impressive synthesis capabilities, some minor OS quirks and lack of MIDI CC transmission for automation are notable downsides. Despite these, its price and potential for firmware updates make it a compelling choice for synth enthusiasts.

positive

MFB Dominion 1 - a DELUXE analog synth - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

The MFB Dominion 1 earns its "DELUXE" badge with a robust build, flexible sound architecture, and impressive performance features. Its analog warmth shines, setting it apart from the competition. The standout multimode filter and versatile LFOs add to its allure, making it a top choice for those seeking deep analog richness. However, it stumbles slightly with sluggish software-based envelopes and cramped knob spacing, which can hinder usability. Despite these minor flaws, its expansive modulation capabilities and expressive ribbon controllers make it a compelling choice for synth enthusiasts who value sound quality and versatility.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
iofflight

Just Fantastic

There is little to complain about with this synth. It's true the buttons are a bit unimpressive and small and the sliders could be a bit stiffer and the envelopes a bit snappier but my niggles end there. For huge sounds, punchiness, and overall wonderful vintage quality tone at a great price look no further. This is best sounding modern analog mono in my opinion.

gooms

Solid synth packed with features

This is an awesome synth and works perfectly for losing yourself for hours tweaking all of the knobs and switches. It however has a somewhat limited range of sounds and that was ultimately the reason I sold it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Guy J uses MFB Dominion 1

Guy J

Music Producer

...
Verified via MusicRadar

"I used to have a tiny white MIDI keyboard that a friend gave me, along with two small, grey computer speakers. Now I have five synths, the Dave Smith Prophet 12 and Poly Evolver, a Nord Lead 4, MFB Dominion 1 and the Access Virus TI."

See how Detroit Swindle uses MFB Dominion 1

Detroit Swindle

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

Behold, the behemoth that is the Dominion! Feeling very lucky we acquired this monster! ???? #gearporn #MFB #dominion

See how Nick Batt uses MFB Dominion 1

Nick Batt

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 0:10, multiple pieces of Nick's live setup can clearly be seen, including the MFB Dominion, a Beatstep Pro, and a Moog Sub 37 (which is more recognizable by it's back at 0:04).

See how Schwefelgelb uses MFB Dominion 1

Schwefelgelb

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video we can see that Schwefelgelb are using a dominion : "Sometimes a good bass takes some spastic hand movement tweaking Dominion's filter env amount."

See how San Soda uses MFB Dominion 1

San Soda

FCL

...
Verified via Resident Advisor

You can see the keys and the lower row of knobs and faders of the MFB Dominion 1 in the 11th picture of this interview.

See how Firechild uses MFB Dominion 1

Firechild

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

video of Firechild performing on the MFB Dominion 1 in his studio

See how BlackGummy uses MFB Dominion 1

BlackGummy

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Per his Instagram:

After months of waiting... finally received the #mfbdominion1

See how Sascha Kloeber uses MFB Dominion 1

Sascha Kloeber

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Sascha Kloeber is playing his MFB Dominion 1 in this Video.

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 MFB Dominion 1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
Y

yeager101

Gear IQ 248

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