Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (10)
$1,199.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$969.00
Amazon
4.3 (13)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$782.39 New
$621.84 Used
zZounds
$1,199.00
B&H
4.0 (1)
$1,199.00
Thomann
5.0 (8)
$775.00 $773.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $990

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Modal Electronics Modal Cobalt 8X". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Modal Electronics Modal Cobalt 8X, a powerhouse virtual analog synthesizer that fuses classic analog warmth with innovative digital technology. With 61 keys and 8-voice true polyphony, this instrument is designed for musicians and sound designers eager to explore new sound dimensions. The Cobalt 8X's dual independent oscillator groups, each with up to four oscillators, offer a playground of 34 complex algorithms such as sync, ring modulation, and waveform morphing. Whether you’re crafting vintage synth leads or futuristic soundscapes, the Cobalt 8X provides a rich palette of sonic possibilities.

The heart of the Cobalt 8X is its newly designed 4-Pole Morphable Ladder Filter, injecting warmth and character into every note. Add a touch of creativity with its extensive modulation capabilities, featuring 12 sources and 55 destinations, paired with three flexible audio-rate LFOs and three dedicated envelopes. A 512-note sequencer and a robust arpeggiator invite you to compose intricate patterns and evolving melodies.

For the modern musician, the Cobalt 8X integrates seamlessly with your DAW via the MODALapp and MODALplugin, allowing for intuitive editing and control over your synth parameters. Its rugged steel and aluminum build ensures reliability on stage, while the Fatar TP/9S keybed with aftertouch provides a responsive playing experience.

Key Features:

  • 61-key virtual analog synthesizer with 8-voice polyphony
  • Dual oscillator groups with 34 complex algorithms
  • 4-Pole Morphable Ladder Filter with resonance
  • Extensive modulation matrix with 12 sources and 55 destinations
  • Real-time 512-note sequencer with polyphonic mode
  • 32-step programmable arpeggiator
  • Three independent stereo effects engines
  • Seamless DAW integration via MODALapp and MODALplugin
  • Rugged steel and aluminum construction with Fatar TP/9S keybed

Owner's manual

Modal Electronics Modal Cobalt 8X User Manual

Product specs

Available since November 2024
Number Of Keys 61
Touch-Sensitive Yes
Aftertouch Yes
Split Zones No
Modulation Wheel No
Number of simultaneous Voices 8
Sound Engine Virtual Analogue
MIDI interface 1x In, 1x Out, USB
Storage Medium Internal
USB-port Yes
Effects 3x Multieffect Processor
Arpeggiator Yes
Number of Analog Outputs 2
Digital Output No
Display Yes
Pedal Connections 2
Dimensions 855 x 300 x 100 mm
Weight 9,0 kg

FAQs

Is the Modal Electronics Cobalt8X synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Modal Electronics Cobalt8X is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer, allowing you to play up to eight notes simultaneously.

What type of sound engine does the Modal Cobalt8X use?

The Cobalt8X uses a virtual analog sound engine, which models the characteristics of analog synthesis using digital technology for a rich and versatile sound palette.

Does the Modal Cobalt8X have aftertouch capabilities?

Yes, the Cobalt8X features a touch-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch, allowing for expressive playing and dynamic control over your sound.

What are the main connectivity options for the Modal Cobalt8X?

The Cobalt8X includes MIDI In/Out ports, a USB port for computer connection, and two analog outputs for audio connectivity.

Does the Modal Cobalt8X synthesizer include an arpeggiator?

Yes, the Cobalt8X is equipped with an arpeggiator, which can add rhythmic and melodic complexity to your performances.

How many keys does the Modal Electronics Cobalt8X have?

The Modal Electronics Cobalt8X features a 61-key keyboard, providing a wide range for performing and composing music.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Modal Electronics Cobalt8X V1.2 Demo — Daniel Fisher

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Cobalt8X V1.2 Demo — Daniel Fisher by Sweetwater

Modal Electronics Cobalt8X V1.2 Demo — Daniel Fisher

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Cobalt8X Review by Keys Review

Modal Electronics Cobalt8X Review

Keys Review

Keys Review

Video thumbnail for The Modal Cobalt 8X synthesizer in 17 minutes by Gearjunkies

The Modal Cobalt 8X synthesizer in 17 minutes

Gearjunkies

Gearjunkies

Video thumbnail for Modal Electronics Cobalt 8X by Jordan Rudess

Modal Electronics Cobalt 8X

Jordan Rudess

Jordan Rudess

Reviews

PROS

  • Presets sound amazing, showcasing the synth's sonic capabilities

  • Fatar keybed provides excellent tactile response with aftertouch

  • Aesthetic design is highly praised

  • USB connectivity is seamless and reliable

  • Sounds have a distinct, vibrant glassy sheen

  • Intuitive and easy to learn, especially with the Modal app

  • Firmware updates significantly enhance features and capabilities

  • Versatile oscillator algorithms for expansive sound design

  • Build quality is robust, described as "built like a tank"

  • Comprehensive connectivity options, including versatile polyphony settings

CONS

  • Poly aftertouch not supported natively, only through MIDI

  • Effects and filters received mixed reviews, some lacking in quality

  • On-device handling and label visibility can be challenging in low light

  • Mod matrix considered less convenient than competitors

  • Output volume is notably quiet, even after firmware updates

  • ModalApp UX has room for improvement, lacks some intuitive features

  • Windows compatibility issues with the ModalApp VST

  • Aftertouch response is stiff, not as expressive as some desire

  • Joystick build may pose durability concerns for touring musicians

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The Fatar keybed is praised for its feel, but some find the joystick's position and type less ergonomic compared to traditional wheels.

    Source
  • Some users find the patch gain difficult to manage, which can be a minor frustration during performance or sound design.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Firmware updates have significantly improved filters and effects, transforming the Cobalt 8X's capabilities beyond initial reviews.

    Source
  • The Cobalt 8X offers up to six oscillators per voice, providing extensive sound design potential.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the ability to achieve nostalgic and diverse sounds, describing the Cobalt 8X as a "chameleon" in sound design.

    Source
  • Some users prefer the Argon8’s utilitarian filter over the Cobalt 8X, highlighting personal preference in filter modeling as a deciding factor.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners prefer the Argon8 for its ability to create unconventional sounds, while the Cobalt leans towards classic tones.

    Source
  • The Cobalt 8X is likened to the Juno and Prophet for its polysynth capabilities, offering a cost-effective alternative with similar sound characteristics.

    Source
  • The Minilogue XD and Deepmind 12 are noted as potential competitors to the Cobalt 8X in the same price range, offering different features and tonal options.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The editing app is highly regarded for ease of use and sets a benchmark other manufacturers should emulate.

    Source
  • Users find the Modal VST integration with Ableton effective, using USB MIDI and routing stereo outputs into an audio interface for seamless DAW functionality.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report issues with encoder sensitivity, making fine adjustments challenging, but this is not universally noticed.

    Source
  • The Cobalt 8X is valued for its feel as a musical instrument, with its engaging keybed and tactile interface being major factors in retaining ownership.

    Source
  • Enthusiasts appreciate the Cobalt 8X for its ability to replicate a wide range of analog sounds, describing the programming experience as enjoyable and the knob design as unique.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Cobalt 8X is favored by users needing a versatile virtual analog synth for performance and composition, especially those transitioning from a Roland Gaia.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
unknownforce

Awesome keyboard but weak sound engine

The Fatar keyboard is awesome. Especially for that price. For this I'm thankful to Modal. But the sound engine is... oh well... very digital: sharp and very clinical. Even later updates didn't change that. It's good for background sounds but it's nowhere near synths like Virus which are also digital and very old. I expected more from this synth but at least the keyboard compensates it. I'm using it only as a master midi keyboard.

From Gear Setup
T

What a great synth

Price and content great....i habe other synths but all costs 10x more

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jordan Rudess uses Modal Electronics Modal Cobalt 8X

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via YouTube

introduces at 4:00 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 Modal Cobalt 8X, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
dj_murray

dj_murray

Gear IQ 212

unknownforce

unknownforce

Gear IQ 123

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