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Reverb
5.0 (18)
$720.00 New
$600.00 Used
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5.0 (49)
$777.00 $772.00 $5.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£660.00

Average Price: $697

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Soma Laboratory LYRA-8". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Unleash your sonic creativity with the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8, an analog drone synthesizer that offers a unique and mesmerizing soundscape experience. Designed for musicians who crave a deeper connection with their instrument, the LYRA-8 is not just a synthesizer; it's an experimental playground. With its 8 voices and 8 oscillators, each voice is independently tunable, allowing for an expansive range of sound possibilities. The LYRA-8's intuitive interface invites you to explore its rich, textured sound, making it an ideal companion for both live performances and studio sessions.

Dive into the world of sound modulation with adjustable FM modulation and a mix of triangle and square waveforms, giving you the flexibility to shape your sound exactly how you envision it. The Hyper LFO and mod delay with dual delay lines provide endless possibilities for vibrato and delay modulation, while the switchable feedback path adds an extra layer of depth to your creations. Its tactile design includes metal contact points for each voice, offering a unique way to interact with your music.

Key Features:

  • 8 voices and 8 oscillators for rich sound exploration
  • Freely tunable voices within a wide range
  • Triangle/Square waveform mix with FM modulation per voice pair
  • AD envelope per voice with selectable response times
  • Hyper LFO for vibrato and delay modulation
  • Switchable feedback path for added depth
  • Mod delay with 2 delay lines and LFO modulation
  • Drive knob with wet/dry controller
  • Metal contact points for tactile interaction
  • Audio and headphone outputs, plus external input
  • Includes 12 V DC external power supply

Product specs

Available since October 2019
Number Of Keys 8
Touch-Sensitive No
Aftertouch No
Split Zones No
Modulation Wheel No
Number of simultaneous Voices 8
Sound Engine Analogue
MIDI interface None
Storage Medium None
USB-port No
Effects Delay, Distortion
Arpeggiator No
Number of Analog Outputs 1
Digital Output No
Display No
Pedal Connections None
Dimensions 266 x 266 x 62 mm
Weight 2,5 kg

FAQs

What makes the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 unique compared to other synthesizers?

The Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 is unique due to its organismic analog design featuring eight voices, a distinctive delay and distortion system, and touch-sensitive sensor keys. It produces complex, evolving textures that set it apart from traditional synthesizers.

Is the Soma LYRA-8 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the LYRA-8 is suitable for live performances, offering a robust build and intuitive controls for spontaneous sound creation. However, it lacks MIDI and USB connectivity, which may require additional setup for integration with other gear.

Can the LYRA-8 be used for melodic compositions?

The LYRA-8 is primarily designed for creating rich, evolving soundscapes and textures rather than traditional melodic compositions. Its eight voices and unique modulation capabilities make it ideal for ambient and experimental music.

Does the Soma LYRA-8 have built-in effects?

Yes, the LYRA-8 includes built-in analog delay and distortion effects, allowing for additional sound manipulation and texture creation without external gear.

How does the touch interface of the LYRA-8 work?

The LYRA-8 features eight touch-sensitive keys that respond to the pressure and position of your fingers, enabling expressive control over the sound. This interface encourages an organic approach to sound shaping.

loopop

loopop

Review: LYRA-8 explained // SOMA LABS

Video thumbnail for Review: LYRA-8 explained  // SOMA LABS by loopop

Review: LYRA-8 explained // SOMA LABS

loopop

loopop

Video thumbnail for Sonic LAB: SOMA Lyra 8 Drone Synth by sonicstate

Sonic LAB: SOMA Lyra 8 Drone Synth

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 Synthesizer Sonic Exploration // Demo by Datachrome

Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 Synthesizer Sonic Exploration // Demo

Datachrome

Datachrome

Video thumbnail for SOMA Lyra-8 // First Day by Dexba

SOMA Lyra-8 // First Day

Dexba

Dexba

Video thumbnail for The Soma LYRA-8 Experience by Patchwerks

The Soma LYRA-8 Experience

Patchwerks

Patchwerks

Video thumbnail for SOMA Lyra-8 – Verrückte Drone Sounds aus Russland by SINEE

SOMA Lyra-8 – Verrückte Drone Sounds aus Russland

SINEE

SINEE

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique sound generation capabilities

  • Ideal for experimental and ambient music styles

  • High-quality build and tactile controls

  • Generates both harsh noise and soft ambient textures

  • Encourages spontaneous, in-the-moment creativity

  • No complex patching required

  • Suitable across various music genres

CONS

  • Not precise in tone and effect control

  • May not be used frequently in standard music production

  • Not suitable for pop or conventional music integration

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Soma Laboratory LYRA-8.

Software and compatibility

  • It's recommended to run the Lyra-8 through effects pedals like the Specular Tempus and Meris Polymoon for expanded sonic possibilities.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Lyra-8 thrives in creating drone and dark ambient music, especially when made stereo with chorus and delay effects for a rich, expansive sound.

    Source
  • Using the Lyra-8 as the main oscillator voice in a semi-modular setup, like running it into a DFAM for sound shaping, can unlock new possibilities.

    Source
  • Owners find the Lyra-8 particularly effective when paired with external gate sequencers, unlocking unique rhythmic capabilities.

    Source
  • Ideal for ambient, noise, and industrial music; struggles with conventional pop/rock structures.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners suggest modding the Lyra-8 to step-tune the pots for more control over modulation, addressing persistent modulation issues even when turned off.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Though the Lyra-8 is sonorous, it may not be abrasive enough for harsh noise enthusiasts, unlike an MS-20 through a RAT pedal which offers grittier textures.

    Source
  • The Mononoke app on iPad is noted as a cheaper alternative, emulating the Lyra-8's sound with additional functions.

    Source
  • Consider the Strega for a more tonal and performable alternative to the Lyra-8.

    Source

User experience

  • Despite its complexity, the Lyra-8 offers a simple workflow with a hardware control for every function, akin to an "anti-Elektron" machine.

    Source
  • Some users describe sessions with the Lyra-8 as therapeutic, with one owner noting it can induce hour-long, immersive experiences.

    Source
  • Owners often sample and chop recordings to fit Lyra-8 into tracks, given its unpredictable nature.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Lyra-8's eight oscillators modulate each other, creating a fat, unhinged sound that eats up the whole frequency spectrum, requiring creative mixing or filtering to fit into tracks.

    Source
  • Lyra-8's hyper LFO and FM+Feedback create unique internal modulation, rewarding exploration over precise tuning.

    Source
  • The Lyra-8 can act as an audio processing unit, enhancing drum loops with its drive and dual delay effects.

    Source

Other

  • The Lyra-8 is likened to an entirely different instrument category, distinct from typical synths, offering a unique sonic experience.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Confidence in purchasing the Lyra-8 used is high due to its robust build and the tendency for these units to retain their resale value.

    Source

Build quality

  • Built like a tank, ensuring durability despite its specialized and limited functionality.

    Source
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 18 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
jabenmusic

Useable Niche

You probably won’t use it 95% of the time, but for the 5%, there is nothing that beats it. It’s perfect for getting out of A minor ruts.

ministerstwoantykultury

The best synth in the world!

...absolutely unique, incredible, unbelievable and impossible, only and only sounds - in the world where all sounds you can find easy in all the same synths... here you have the synth voices you have never heard...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Trent Reznor uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Trent Reznor

Singer, Guitarist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified via Somasynths

Atticus and I make a point to keep everything in flux in our studio, with gear always changing to keep us rethinking things and never getting too comfortable. The LYRA-8 is one of the few “permanent” hookups.

See how St. Vincent uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

St. Vincent

Singer, Guitarist

The Polyphonic Spree

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Coming Soon - St. Vincent: The Process | Studio Tour" by Reverb, the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 can be briefly seen in St. Vincent's studio.

See how Andrew Huang uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

Visible throughout this April 10, 2019 video, starting at 0:05.

See how Underworld uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Underworld

Music Producer

Freur

...
Verified via Photo

This image from the band's Instagram account shows Underworld's two Lyra-8 units.

See how Stephen O'Malley uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Stephen O'Malley

Guitarist

Sunn O)))

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram story, Stephen O'Malley is shown using the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 synthesizer.

See how Imogen Heap uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Imogen Heap

Keyboardist, Composer

Frou Frou

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube series hosted by Tape Notes Podcast titled "The Edge Of Chaos - Imogen Heap's Exploration of Noise with FLESHLICKER," Imogen Heap discusses her musical process and mentions her use of various gear, including the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8, as listed in the episode description.

See how A. G. Cook uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

A. G. Cook

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post from 645ar, A. G. Cook can be seen using the Lyra-8 (Pink) in the studio.

See how Surgeon uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Surgeon

Music Producer, DJ

Online meets Surgeon

...
Verified via Resident Advisor

Surgeon uses the Lyra-8 in what he calls his 'more abstract' (non-techno) live projects, like Anthony Child live and his part in The Transcendence Orchestra.

Currently this Soma Lyra-8 synth is quite important. [...] I'm using it along with the baby version of the Roland SH-101, which does arpeggiated melodies. [...] Both the Lyra-8 and the the Roland are fed into this Electro-Harmonix 45000 looper, which takes either four mono or two stereo loops. Given the steady development of these performances, it's quite effective to layer sounds up into the looper and let them slowly decay as you build in new ideas. It's like this constantly evolving story that you get drawn into. [... The looper is] vital, it's the centre of this setup really. Whatever else I was using with it, I've always used this looper.

'The Art Of Production: Surgeon', Resident Advisor, October 2019

In an accompanying video (0:12) he demonstrates and describes his approach:

It works a lot with the tension and release between the more melodic element, which is the SH-01A [and] the more chaotic and noisy elements of the Lyra-8, which is a synthesizer that I'm a big fan of.

The Art Of Production: Surgeon's abstract live setup

See how Eskmo uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Eskmo

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Eskmo is seen using the Soma Laboratory LYRA-8 synthesizer in a post on his official Instagram account.

See how Pye Corner Audio uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Pye Corner Audio

...
Verified via Photo

Lyra-8 can be seen on photo. PCA has discussed elsewhere using it for drones.

See how Masonna uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Masonna

Composer, Music Producer

Acid Eater

...
Verified via Photo

A black Lyra-8 Orgasmic Synthesizer can be seen in this gear photo posted to Maso Yamazaki’s Instagram

See how Deaton Chris Anthony uses Soma Laboratory LYRA-8

Deaton Chris Anthony

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via MusicTech

Per this Aug. 2022 feature in MusicTech, DCA has paired his Soma drum machine with a matching-red Lyra-8. Most visible in this photo:

https://musictech.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/[email protected]

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 Soma Laboratory LYRA-8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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