Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $341
Budget/Beginner
$500
$1501+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Modal Electronics Cobalt 5S". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Experience a sonic revolution with the Modal Electronics Cobalt 5S, a synth that merges classic analog warmth with modern digital versatility. This 5-voice polyphonic synthesizer is a powerhouse in a compact form, boasting up to eight oscillators per voice and a library of 40 complex algorithms, including wave morphing and cross modulation. Whether you're crafting deep, resonant basslines or ethereal, evolving pads, the Cobalt 5S delivers unparalleled sound design flexibility.
The Cobalt 5S is equipped with a pressure-sensitive XYZ touchpad and 16 switched encoders, offering hands-on control for musicians who crave tactile interaction. Its 512-note polyphonic sequencer and 2048-step arpeggiator allow you to explore new creative pathways, while the robust 4-pole morphable ladder filter ensures your sounds are rich and dynamic. With dual independent stereo effects engines for lush chorus and delay, your performances will resonate with depth and dimension.
For seamless integration, the Cobalt 5S supports MPE and offers plug-in compatibility with your DAW via the MODALplugin. The free MODALapp provides detailed editing capabilities across multiple platforms, making it easy to manage and customize your sonic palette.
Key Features:
- 5-voice polyphony with up to 8 oscillators per voice
- 40 advanced algorithms for diverse sound design
- Pressure-sensitive XYZ touchpad for expressive control
- 512-note sequencer and 2048-step arpeggiator
- Dual stereo effects engines with chorus and delay
- MODALapp for comprehensive sound editing
- MPE support and USB connectivity for easy integration with DAWs and devices
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Synth |
| Sound Engine | Extended Virtual Analog Synthesis |
| Analog/Digital | Digital |
| Number of Keys | 37 |
| Type of Keys | Mini-keys |
| Aftertouch | Yes |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes |
| Other Controllers | 5-axis X/Y/Z Pressure-sensitive Pad |
| Polyphony | 5 notes ; Mono, Unison, Stack modes |
| Number of Presets | 300 x Patch Memories, 200 x Factory Programs |
| Oscillators | 2 x Oscillator Groups, 8 x Oscillators per voice |
| Waveforms | Sine, Pulse, Triangle, Sawtooth ; 40 x Oscillator Algorithms |
| LFO | 2 x LFO (polyphonic/global mode) |
| Filter | 4-pole Ladder Filter with Resonance |
| Envelope Generator | 3 x EG (filter, amp, modulation) |
| Effects Types | Chorus, Stereo Delay |
| Arpeggiator | 32-step |
| Sequencer | 64-step, 512-note Realtime/Step Sequencer |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4" TS (L/mono, R) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out/USB, MIDI Polyphonic Expression |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (sustain) |
| Other I/O | 2 x 1/8" (sync in/out) |
| Mod Matrix | 8 Assignable Slots, 4 Fixed Slots, 11 Sources, 41 Destinations |
| Features | Glide/Portamento with Legato/Staccato modes |
| Software | MODALapp |
| Power Source | 9V DC 1.5A center-positive power supply (sold separately) / USB bus power |
| Height | 2.24" |
| Width | 22.24" |
| Depth | 6.38" |
| Weight | 5.20 lbs. |
FAQs
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Is the Modal Electronics Cobalt 5S synthesizer polyphonic?
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Yes, the Modal Electronics Cobalt 5S is a 5-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing you to play up to five notes simultaneously.
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What types of synthesis does the Cobalt 5S use?
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The Cobalt 5S utilizes extended virtual analog synthesis, offering a wide range of classic analog-style sounds with digital precision.
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Does the Cobalt 5S have aftertouch and velocity-sensitive keys?
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Yes, the Cobalt 5S features mini-keys that are both velocity-sensitive and equipped with aftertouch, providing expressive performance capabilities.
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How many presets can the Modal Cobalt 5S store?
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The Cobalt 5S can store up to 300 patch memories and includes 200 factory programs, offering a vast array of sound options.
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What kind of power supply does the Cobalt 5S require?
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The Cobalt 5S can be powered via a 9V DC 1.5A center-positive power supply (sold separately) or through USB bus power.
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Can the Cobalt 5S be used with MIDI controllers?
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Yes, the Cobalt 5S supports MIDI I/O via In/Out/USB, including MIDI Polyphonic Expression, making it compatible with external MIDI controllers.
Videos
BoBeats
COBALT 5S synthesizer review: Virtual analog done right!
Reviews
PROS
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Arpeggiator offers extensive fun and creativity
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Exceptional bass sounds that impress
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Solid keys with effective aftertouch
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Intuitive and brilliant control designs
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Presets are beautifully crafted
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Huge sound in a compact, portable design
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Easy sound design with the intuitive MODALapp
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Versatile for both beginners and veterans
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Can double as a software instrument in DAWs
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Encourages exploration and learning in sound creation
CONS
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Lack of a fitted case for protection and transport
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Menu navigation can be complex and unintuitive
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Touchpad may not be as responsive or preferred by all users
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Software integration with DAWs on Windows is challenging
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Small design leads to numerous dual-function controls, which can be cumbersome live
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User manual lacks detailed explanations on functions
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Modal Electronics Cobalt 5S.
Features and functionality
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The Cobalt 5S can synthesize Wurlitzer and EP sounds; factory patches include multiple electric piano presets.
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The XYZ pad on the Cobalt 5S is reportedly inadequate for live performance compared to traditional joysticks on other models.
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The Cobalt 5S lacks free-running oscillators, leading to a more precise and clicky sound, unlike traditional analog synths.
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The Cobalt 5S's step sequencer is seen as underwhelming, with users finding it less useful compared to other synths' sequencers.
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Comparisons
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The Cobalt 8, with 8 voices, 3 LFOs, and 3 FX slots, offers more comprehensive features than the 5S.
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The Minilogue XD is noted to be closer to the Cobalt engine than the MiniFreak, offering a different sound experience and feature set.
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The Hydrasynth is noted to have more extensive modulation options and a more versatile sound design capability than the Cobalt 5S.
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The Hydrasynth’s engine, including its powerful filters, is considered superior to the Cobalt 5S, especially for ethereal pad sounds.
Source
Build quality
Software and compatibility
User experience
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Genre Usage
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