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Average Price: $704

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$500

$1501+

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High-end

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Description

Modal Electronics Argon 8 is an expertly crafted 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer that redefines the boundaries of digital sound design. Built around a 32-oscillator configuration, this synth is a powerhouse of creativity, allowing musicians to explore a multitude of sonic landscapes. Whether you're crafting ethereal pads, punchy basslines, or experimental textures, Argon8 offers a versatile playground for sound exploration. Its robust construction, featuring a steel and aluminum chassis with bamboo end cheeks, ensures durability and style, making it perfect for both studio use and live performances.

Dive into the Argon8's rich feature set, which includes a 512-step sequencer and an intuitive 32-step arpeggiator with rest capabilities. The synth's FATAR keybed with 37 semi-weighted keys provides a tactile and responsive playing experience, further enlivened by velocity and aftertouch for expressive performance. The inclusion of a powerful 4-axis joystick adds another layer of dynamic control, enhancing your ability to shape and manipulate sound in real-time.

Argon8 also excels in connectivity, easily integrating into your existing setup with MIDI and USB options, making it a versatile choice for any music producer or performer. Its intuitive design and the free MODALapp provide seamless access to all functions, ensuring that you spend more time creating and less time navigating menus. Experience the endless possibilities of sound design with the Modal Electronics Argon8.

Key Features:

  • 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer with 32 oscillators
  • 120 morphable wavetables for expansive sound design
  • FATAR keybed with 37 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with velocity and aftertouch
  • 512-step sequencer and programmable 32-step arpeggiator
  • Comprehensive effects engine including distortion, delay, reverb, and more
  • Steel and aluminum chassis with bamboo end cheeks for durability
  • Extensive MIDI and USB connectivity options
  • Free MODALapp for enhanced control and patch management

Product specs

Brand Modal Electronics
Model Argon8 8 Voice 37-Key Wavetable Synthesizer
Finish Grey
Year 2020
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 37 Keys
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

Is the Modal Electronics Argon 8 synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Modal Electronics Argon 8 is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing for rich, layered soundscapes and complex chord progressions.

What kind of keys does the Argon 8 have?

The Argon 8 features 37 full-size keys with synth action, equipped with both velocity sensitivity and aftertouch for expressive playing.

Can the Argon 8's filter be adjusted between different types?

Yes, the Argon 8 has a two-pole morphing resonant filter that can be adjusted from low pass, through band pass, to high pass.

Does the Argon 8 have built-in effects?

The Argon 8 includes three independent and user-configurable stereo FX engines, offering effects such as chorus, phaser, flanger, lo-fi, tremolo, rotary, delay, and reverb.

How many patch memories does the Argon 8 offer?

The Argon 8 provides 500 patch memories, with 300 factory programs and 200 user patch spaces, all fully editable for custom sound design.

What are the main modulation options available on the Argon 8?

The Argon 8 features a powerful modulation matrix with 8 assignable slots, 11 mod sources, and 52 destinations, along with a 4-axis joystick for dynamic modulation control.

loopop

loopop

Modal ARGON8: Review and full workflow tutorial // wavetable synthesis explained

Video thumbnail for Modal ARGON8: Review and full workflow tutorial // wavetable synthesis explained by loopop

Modal ARGON8: Review and full workflow tutorial // wavetable synthesis explained

loopop

loopop

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Argon 8 Wavetable Synthesizer - SonicLAB Review by sonicstate

Modal Electronics Argon 8 Wavetable Synthesizer - SonicLAB Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for FIRST LOOK: Modal Argon 8 (Affordable Polyphonic Wavetable Synthesizer) by BoBeats

FIRST LOOK: Modal Argon 8 (Affordable Polyphonic Wavetable Synthesizer)

BoBeats

BoBeats

Video thumbnail for MODAL ARGON8 review // a wavetable synth with impressive build & sound by BoBeats

MODAL ARGON8 review // a wavetable synth with impressive build & sound

BoBeats

BoBeats

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics ARGON8 - Sounds, Patches and Presets | Synth Demo by synth4ever

Modal Electronics ARGON8 - Sounds, Patches and Presets | Synth Demo

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Argon8 Polyphonic Wavetable Synthesizer by Perfect Circuit

Modal Electronics Argon8 Polyphonic Wavetable Synthesizer

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Just Sounds: Modal Electronics ARGON8 Wavetable Synth by Noisegate

Just Sounds: Modal Electronics ARGON8 Wavetable Synth

Noisegate

Noisegate

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics ARGON8 review by SynthMania

Modal Electronics ARGON8 review

SynthMania

SynthMania

Reviews

PROS

  • Incredible sound quality that impresses users immediately

  • Rich and versatile sound capabilities

  • Well-constructed with durable materials

  • Offers a wide range of features for its size

  • Unique British design adds a distinct flair

  • Highly praised by musicians, evoking strong emotional responses

CONS

  • SHIFT functions can be confusing to navigate

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Modal Electronics Argon 8.

Features and functionality

  • The Argon8's latest firmware update improved filters and FX, offering a notably enhanced sound.

    Source
  • The Argon8 struggles with plucky sounds due to a design fault where attack values below 3 default to 3, affecting envelope snappiness.

    Source
  • The Argon8 excels in wavetables, wav mods, osc mods, and individual osc detune stacking, with per-voice distortion and exceptional app integration.

    Source
  • The Argon8's sequencer and arpeggiator are highly regarded, with a standout preset called VT Acidface offering unique squelchy sounds.

    Source

User experience

  • Bright LED lights on the Argon8 can be overwhelming in low-light environments, even at minimum brightness settings, potentially causing eye strain.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the immediacy of controls with minimal menu diving, enhancing the creative process and making patch crafting more intuitive.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Argon8 is considered a bargain for its keybed and sound quality, especially when purchased used at around $400.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Modal App enhances Argon8's experience by providing easy access to parameters, sequencer, and preset management across platforms, though audio over USB is unsupported.

    Source
  • The ModalApp is available on iOS, Android, and desktop, enhancing the user experience significantly.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Blofeld offers a more complex synth engine with 16-part multitimbrality and three oscillators, while Argon8 focuses on a hands-on interface.

    Source
  • Compared to the Modwave, the Argon8 is 8-voice monotimbral and lacks user wavetable slots, but offers a sturdier keybed.

    Source
  • Some users find the Novation Ultranova offers superior sound at a lower price, suggesting the Argon8 might not suit all preferences.

    Source
  • Compared to the Blofeld, the Argon8's sound is less complex but more "beefy," and its interface is praised for almost having a knob per function.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Unplugging an audio jack while connected via USB can fry the USB port, possibly due to ESD, requiring repair of a TVS protection diode.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Argon8's joystick allows for expressive modulation, although its destinations are limited, sometimes displaying "not a modulatable destination" on screen.

    Source
  • The Argon8's encoders may feel wobbly but are designed for longevity, with the overall build feeling premium.

    Source
  • While the keyboard is highly praised, the encoders have been criticized for feeling plastic and hollow, though they function well.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Modal Argon8 review | Juno Daily

juno.co.uk

A well-crafted machine that defies its price, the Modal Argon 8 delivers a robust build, full-sized keys, and an impressive palette of sounds that range from pristine to gritty. The user-friendly interface shines, making sound design accessible without the need for additional software. While the digital filter may initially appear basic, it performs admirably, complementing the versatile oscillators. However, its weight could be a drawback for some musicians seeking portability. Despite this, the Argon 8 stands out in a crowded field, earning a reputation as a potential game changer for synth enthusiasts. Best new synth of 2020? It’s a strong contender.

positive

Modal Argon8 - a polyphonic Wavetable synthesizer - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

The Modal Electronics Argon 8 presents an expansive world of wavetable synthesis at an accessible price, boasting an impressive array of features and a user-friendly interface. However, initial frustrations arise from its complex operation and unclear error messages, which may deter beginners. Once familiarized, the synthesizer reveals its rich tonal palette, excelling in pads and effects while being less suited for bass-heavy genres. Despite minor hardware compromises, the overall sound quality and versatility make it a standout choice for aspiring sound designers. If you're willing to invest the time to master its intricacies, the Argon 8 is a highly recommended addition to any studio.

positive
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jimiuno

Its as cold as ice

Easily my favourite synth at the moment, great for getting those cant get sounds

droneswarm

Wavetable goodness.

Firstly, the sound is fantastic. Programming is OK, but hindered slightly by the SHIFT functions, it may just be me, but I still get a bit lost when I need to use these functions. Besides that it is a great unit.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Chris Vrenna uses Modal Electronics Argon 8

Chris Vrenna

Drummer, Music Producer

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Chris Vrenna

Chris Vrenna is known to use the Modal Electronics Argon 8 synthesizer, as confirmed by his own website.

See how Andy Shauf uses Modal Electronics Argon 8

Andy Shauf

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Reddit

In a Reddit AMA, Andy Schauf explains that he used an Prophet 6, an ASM Hydrasynth, an Argon8, and a Roland RS-09 on his album, "Norm".

Album Usage

The Modal Electronics Argon 8 has been featured on the following albums:

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 Modal Electronics Argon 8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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drey_andersson

drey_andersson

Gear IQ 186

marc_martinez

marc_martinez

Gear IQ 793

dj_murray

dj_murray

Gear IQ 212

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