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Average Price: $2,199

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

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Standard

High-end

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Description

The Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer is where cutting-edge technology meets vintage warmth, offering musicians an expansive sonic playground. This 12-voice hybrid digital/analog synthesizer bridges the gap between the classic and the contemporary, bringing you a unique synthesis experience. At its core are digital oscillators that transition seamlessly into a fully analog signal path, allowing for an unparalleled depth and richness in sound. Whether you're crafting lush pads, complex textures, or punchy basslines, the Prophet 12's versatility is bound to inspire.

Its digital oscillators offer both amplitude and frequency modulation, with the flexibility to experiment through standard methods or dive into classic DX-style linear FM. This makes it an ideal tool for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and adventurous sonic explorers. The interface is intuitive, yet comprehensive, providing hands-on control over every parameter, ensuring that creativity flows uninterrupted.

The Prophet 12 doesn’t just stop at offering a wide palette of sounds; its robust build and thoughtful design integrate seamlessly into any studio or live setup. Crafted by the renowned team at Sequential, this synthesizer embodies a commitment to quality and innovation, making it a staple for any musician looking to elevate their soundscape.

Key Features:

  • 12-voice hybrid digital/analog synthesizer
  • Digital oscillators with a fully analog signal path
  • Amplitude and frequency modulation, including DX-style linear FM
  • Intuitive interface for comprehensive control
  • Versatile sound design capabilities suitable for any genre

Product specs

Brand Sequential
Model Prophet 12 Keyboard 12-Voice Hybrid Digital/Analog Synthesizer
Finish Black with Wood Sides, Silver, White with Wood Sides
Year 2018 - 2020
Made In United States
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 12 Voices

FAQs

Is the Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer fully analog?

The Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer is a hybrid digital/analog instrument, combining digital oscillators with analog filters to create a unique sound palette.

How many voices of polyphony does the Prophet 12 offer?

The Prophet 12 provides 12 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes.

What type of keys does the Prophet 12 feature?

The Prophet 12 is equipped with a 61-key full-size, semi-weighted keyboard, offering a responsive and expressive playing experience.

Can the Prophet 12 be integrated with a DAW via MIDI?

Yes, the Prophet 12 supports MIDI Input, Output, and Through, as well as USB MIDI, making it compatible with most DAWs for seamless integration.

What are the standout features of the Prophet 12's sound engine?

The Prophet 12's sound engine features digital oscillators coupled with analog filters, providing a versatile range of sounds from warm analog tones to complex digital textures.

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Demo

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Demo by Perfect Circuit

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Demo

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Introducing the Prophet 12 Synthesizer - Dave Smith Instruments by Sequential

Introducing the Prophet 12 Synthesizer - Dave Smith Instruments

Sequential

Sequential

Video thumbnail for Prophet 12 Features Overview- Dave Smith Instruments by Sequential

Prophet 12 Features Overview- Dave Smith Instruments

Sequential

Sequential

Video thumbnail for The Lost Prophet: Dave Smith's Forgotten Flagship by Jameson Nathan Jones

The Lost Prophet: Dave Smith's Forgotten Flagship

Jameson Nathan Jones

Jameson Nathan Jones

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Synthesizer Sound Demo by MusicStoreTV

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Synthesizer Sound Demo

MusicStoreTV

MusicStoreTV

Video thumbnail for Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Synthesizer Workshop [Part 1] by MusicStoreTV

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Synthesizer Workshop [Part 1]

MusicStoreTV

MusicStoreTV

Video thumbnail for GEOSynths - Synth Show Reviews - Sequential Prophet 12 by GEOSynths

GEOSynths - Synth Show Reviews - Sequential Prophet 12

GEOSynths

GEOSynths

Video thumbnail for SEQUENTIAL PROPHET-12 - Sounds, Patches & Presets | Synth Demo by synth4ever

SEQUENTIAL PROPHET-12 - Sounds, Patches & Presets | Synth Demo

synth4ever

synth4ever

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer.

Build quality

  • The keybed is criticized for its low quality, with some suggesting an upgrade for improved performance as a master keyboard.

    Source
  • Owners report that the rubber on frequently used knobs, such as the cutoff, can wear off over time but can be replaced by contacting DSI.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Prophet 12 is recognized for inspiring the current wave of hybrid synths, such as the ASM Hydrasynth, pointing to its influential role in synthesizer evolution.

    Source
  • It's noted for its ability to produce large, fat sounds, making it suitable for genres requiring powerful pads and arpeggios, akin to Daft Punk's style.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users prefer the Prophet 12 for its 4 oscillators, which offer enticing sound design opportunities compared to other synths they have owned.

    Source
  • Some users report that FM capabilities may suffer from lag, potentially due to processing power limitations affecting high-frequency sidebands.

    Source
  • Some users find the menu-diving cumbersome, especially on the module version, which affects ease of use compared to competitors like the Novation Peak.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Prophet 12's modulation setup includes "assign mod source" and "assign mod destination" buttons, providing a unique way to create modulations without heavy menu navigation.

    Source
  • The synth includes character effects such as distortion, decimation, and a unique tape saturation effect named "Hack."

    Source
  • The Prophet 12 features pre-filter effects, tuned feedback, and 4 oscillators that can serve as modulation sources for a wide array of parameters.

    Source
  • The Prophet 12 can utilize poly aftertouch, providing expressive control like opening the filter per note, enhancing modulation with a mod matrix.

    Source
  • Unique features like the "air" and "girth" controls, alongside FM and AM capabilities, offer distinctive sound-shaping possibilities not commonly found in other synths.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Prophet 12 is described as a Rev2 with digital wavescanning oscillators, but with similar filter and workflow, suggesting similar but enhanced capabilities.

    Source
  • While the Prophet 12 is praised for its unique and versatile sound, the Novation Summit is recommended for those seeking a more predictable workhorse hybrid synth.

    Source
  • Owners compare the Prophet 12's wave tables as rudimentary when contrasted with Novation Summit's, which allows custom wave table imports.

    Source
  • The Prophet 12's CEM3397 filter is critiqued for not being as favorable as the Novation Peak/Summit filters, which are deemed more neutral and musical.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used Prophet 12 in excellent condition is generally priced between $1,700 and $2,000. Offering $1,800 may be a reasonable starting negotiation point.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12

soundonsound.com

With its hybrid design and 12-voice architecture, the Sequential Prophet 12 synthesizer delivers impressive sound versatility and a rich feature set, making sound design both fun and intuitive. Its robust modulation capabilities and unique Character section allow for a wide range of sonic exploration. However, some users may find the aftertouch overly sensitive, and the headphone output is limited to one layer, which can be a nuisance during live performances. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Prophet 12 stands as a worthy flagship instrument in the storied Prophet lineage, merging classic analog warmth with modern digital precision.

positive

DSI Prophet 12 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer stands out with its unique sound and versatility, making it a joy for live performances and studio work alike. Its intuitive interface and solid build quality enhance playability, allowing musicians to dive deep into sound design effortlessly. However, the inability to specify voice allocation in unison mode and the lack of a global bypass for effects may frustrate some users, particularly at this price point. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Prophet 12 remains a powerful tool for creating evolving soundscapes and intricate textures, proving itself a worthy investment for serious synth enthusiasts.

positive

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Alessandro Cortini uses Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer

Alessandro Cortini

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Nine Inch Nails - Alessandro Cortini Live Rig" by Sonicstate on YouTube, at 9:02, Alessandro Cortini discusses the Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer, which is included in his live performance setup.

See how Trevor Morris uses Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer

Trevor Morris

Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video of Trevor's studio, the prophet 12 can be seen at 2:30

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 Sequential Prophet 12 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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