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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0, a powerhouse in a compact form. This portable monophonic wavetable synthesizer is perfect for DJs and electronic musicians seeking an expansive sound palette without the cumbersome setup. Despite its small size, the CRAFTsynth 2.0 boasts an impressive eight-oscillator configuration, allowing you to layer two different waveforms from a selection of 40, ensuring every note you play is rich and textured.

The built-in 8-note touchpad and compatibility with external MIDI devices via USB or 5-pin DIN make it adaptable to various performance styles. For those who love to tweak and experiment, this synth offers three envelope generators, two audio-rate LFOs, and a 2-pole resonant filter to shape your sound with precision. Whether you’re crafting cinematic stabs, luscious pads, or gritty leads, the modulation matrix and 16 oscillator modifiers provide endless possibilities to explore.

Perfect for the nomadic musician, the CRAFTsynth 2.0 can be powered by USB or three AAA batteries, making it ideal for spontaneous jam sessions or outdoor gigs. Enhance your experience with the optional software editor, available on all major operating systems, to dive deeper into sound design and preset management.

Key Features:

  • Portable monophonic wavetable synthesizer with eight-oscillator configuration
  • 40 waveforms and 16 oscillator modifiers for versatile sound design
  • Three envelope generators and two audio-rate LFOs
  • 2-pole resonant filter with morphable low pass, band pass, and high pass options
  • 8-slot modulation matrix for complex signal processing
  • USB or battery-powered for ultimate portability
  • Onboard 8-note touchpad with custom scales and root note selection
  • Optional software editor compatible with macOS, iOS, Windows, and Android devices

Product specs

Brand Modal Electronics
Model CRAFTsynth 2.0 Monophonic Virtual Analogue Wavetable Synthesizer
Finish White
Year 2018 - 2020
Categories Analog Synths, Desktop Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads 8 Pads
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the CRAFTsynth 2.0 is suitable for live performances due to its portable design, built-in sequenced arpeggiator, and MIDI clock sync for LFOs and Delay, allowing for dynamic and synchronized live sound manipulation.

Can the CRAFTsynth 2.0 be powered without a computer?

Yes, the CRAFTsynth 2.0 can be powered by 3 AA batteries, making it highly portable and suitable for use without a computer or external power source.

What type of synthesis does the CRAFTsynth 2.0 use?

The CRAFTsynth 2.0 uses digital virtual analogue wavetable synthesis, providing a wide range of sound design possibilities with a single monophonic voice.

Does the CRAFTsynth 2.0 have an external software editor?

Yes, there is an optional software editor available for macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android, allowing for deeper sound design and parameter control.

How is the CRAFTsynth 2.0 connected to other devices?

The CRAFTsynth 2.0 offers class-compliant MIDI over a USB connection, as well as traditional MIDI input and output, allowing for easy integration with computers, tablets, and other MIDI-compatible devices.

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Modal CraftSynth 2.0

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Modal CraftSynth 2.0 by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Modal CraftSynth 2.0

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for Modal CRAFTsynth 2.0 - Monophonic wavetable synthesiser by Modal Electronics

Modal CRAFTsynth 2.0 - Monophonic wavetable synthesiser

Modal Electronics

Modal Electronics

Video thumbnail for TOP 5 Awesome Features! | Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0 by GAK

TOP 5 Awesome Features! | Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0

GAK

GAK

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 Kickstarter Video by Modal Electronics

Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 Kickstarter Video

Modal Electronics

Modal Electronics

Video thumbnail for Just Sounds: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 by Noisegate

Just Sounds: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0

Noisegate

Noisegate

Video thumbnail for Episode 36: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 | My favourite portable synthesizer by The Modular Clubhouse

Episode 36: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 | My favourite portable synthesizer

The Modular Clubhouse

The Modular Clubhouse

Video thumbnail for First Look: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 Now Available in Australia by Noisegate

First Look: Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 Now Available in Australia

Noisegate

Noisegate

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0 Overview | Gear4music by Gear4music Guitars

Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0 Overview | Gear4music

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • More portable and easier to get good sounds out compared to Monologue and Microfreak

  • Less expensive with superior features like daisy chaining for polyphony and more oscillator waves

  • Oscillator Modifiers add unique sound sculpting capabilities

  • Includes voicings from the higher-end MODEL 002

  • Great array of sounds with deep control through the app

  • Programmable arpeggiator and built-in delay for enhanced sound design

  • Versatile for a wide range of uses beyond its price point

  • Compact and battery-powered for mobility

  • Can save presets and banks on both device and computer

CONS

  • Requires app for deep functionality and preset management

  • Non-pressure sensitive touchscreen keybed can be overly responsive

  • MIDI setup can be cumbersome and not intuitive out-of-the-box

  • Build quality and knobs feel cheap and lack durability

  • Limited physical controls require software to access full features

  • Programmable arpeggiator may work incorrectly, shifting notes

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0.

Use cases and applications

  • EWI USB users recommend mapping the bite sensor to the mod wheel for enhanced expression.

    Source
  • The CRAFTsynth 2.0 excels in creating organic and brass-like sounds, offering a wide range of expressive possibilities for wind controller users.

    Source
  • Mapping cutoff to breath control enhances dynamics, making it ideal for expressive wind controller performances.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners feel it provides unmatched sound design capabilities for the price, even if it isn't the centerpiece of their setup.

    Source
  • Owners highly regard the CRAFTsynth 2.0's sound for its price, often comparing it favorably to more expensive models.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the delay effect lacks consistent volume compensation, impacting predictability during sound design.

    Source
  • Ground loop noise can occur when powered via USB while recording; using AA batteries or an external power bank is recommended.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Sounds are described as "beefy" and powerful, with full-size MIDI jacks appreciated over the 1/8" outputs, distinguishing it from similar priced gear.

    Source
  • Some users find the CRAFTsynth 2.0 more powerful than the Korg Volca series due to its versatile sound capabilities.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The editor app is standalone, allowing patch editing without a DAW, overcoming the front panel's limitations.

    Source
  • Anders Bostrom's preset packs come pre-configured with aftertouch settings, simplifying the setup process for new patches.

    Source
  • The Modal app's preset window is essential for controlling waveform and filter settings, crucial for customizing sounds.

    Source
  • The Modal app is crucial for accessing hidden settings and is available on both iOS and Android.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Despite the lack of a display, the synth allows control of any parameter with the mod wheel, offering unique sci-fi sound creation not easily replicated by other synths.

    Source
  • Combining wave 1 (carrier) and wave 2 (modulator) allows for nuanced sound design, with wave 1's character tempered by wave 2's volume.

    Source
  • The spread knob and tuning on Oscillator 2 enable unique chord voicings despite being a monosynth.

    Source

Build quality

  • The encoders are frictionless, giving a cheaper feel but are durable; the plastic is heavier and stronger than the Skulpt, surviving falls without damage.

    Source
  • The knobs' pots are not anchored to the front panel, leading to potential wobbling issues if the device is hit.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Disabling portamento and pedal switch on CC65 improves responsiveness with the EWI 5000, enhancing overall playability.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0

soundonsound.com

The Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 showcases a compact design packed with a powerful synthesis engine, offering extensive sound-shaping capabilities. However, it falls short with its non-velocity-sensitive keys and reliance on the MODALapp for many functions, making it less intuitive for hands-on sound design. While the build quality and MIDI connectivity are commendable, the lack of a screen and the difficulty in navigating its features could frustrate users. This synth is a solid option for those who prioritize sound design versatility over live performance ease.

Modal Electronics Craft Synth 2.0 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

A compact synth with impressive capabilities, the Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0 boasts powerful wavetable oscillators and extensive modulation options, offering great value for its price. While its ease of use and portability are big pluses, the limitations of basic effects and a monophonic output can be disappointing for those seeking richer soundscapes. Still, for sound design enthusiasts, it delivers a versatile palette that's hard to beat in this price range.

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toxicant

Amazing power and range with a sleek portable design

Seriously powerful and versatile monophonic synth with programable arpeggiator and built-in delay. Although I bought it to use for bass parts (and the low rumbling sound it produces does not disappoint!) I have ended up applying it to a much wider range of uses. The built in distortion and delay really add considerable heft to the already impressive sounds this beast can produce. Extremely pleased with the textured and noisy territory these led me to explore and what was meant to be a secondary part of my sound assumed the center stage. After a bit of tweaking and exploration of the software included the potential for an "experimental" approach I hadn't expected this to have became apparent. That said, some people may balk at the need to employ a PC or tablet to fully utilize the amazingly flexible features of this synth. For size and cost sake the physical controls are limited and most of the knobs are doing triple duty. The same consideration led to the simplistic key layout which allows for quick scrolling to access the full range of octaves but lacks touch sensitivity and may be off-putting to keyboard players (a friend of mine who is one looked confused at first but quickly found his footing with some trial and error), although there is a midi in to bypass this issue if desired. For this price I don't think there's a better synth on the market and, provided you are willing to hook it up to a screen (and/or keyboard) then you will absolutely get more than you paid for.

jimmarchi1

sell this, buy the big brother... ARGON 8 KILLS

denpat

Отличный монофонический вэйвтэйбл синтезатор.

Использую его для написания различных мелодий, будь то пэды, лиды, бас и всевозможные звуки. Удобное и понятное программное обеспечение, как на PC, так и приложение на смартфон. Пресеты и банки можно сохранять в самом устройстве, так и на компьютере, если их количество превышает 64 патча. Недостаток у него в том, что программируемый арпеджиатор работает некорректно - сдвигает ноты.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

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See how Ulrich Schnauss uses Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0

Ulrich Schnauss

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via YouTube

Ulrich's CRAFTsynth 2.0 can be seen at 0:45 in the 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 Modal Electronics CRAFTsynth 2.0, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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denpat

denpat

Gear IQ 99

davor_tosovic

davor_tosovic

Gear IQ 108

deadfred

deadfred

Gear IQ 414

deadfred

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