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Description

The Studio Electronics ATC-1 is a versatile sound module that offers musicians and producers a unique blend of classic analog warmth and modern flexibility. Known for its rich, authentic sound, the ATC-1 is a monophonic analog synthesizer that stands out for its interchangeable filter cartridges. This feature allows users to swap out different filters, such as those emulating the Moog, Oberheim, and ARP styles, providing a diverse palette of sonic possibilities. With its comprehensive MIDI implementation, the ATC-1 seamlessly integrates into any modern studio setup, making it a go-to choice for both live performances and studio sessions.

Under the hood, the ATC-1 is powered by an analog signal path that ensures the delivery of robust and dynamic tones. Its intuitive interface, featuring both rotary knobs and tactile switches, allows for real-time tweaking and sound shaping. The discrete VCO (Voltage Controlled Oscillator) design, coupled with a dedicated LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator) and envelope settings, further enhances its ability to create complex and evolving soundscapes. Whether you’re crafting deep basslines or soaring leads, the ATC-1 offers a level of expressiveness that is both inspiring and practical.

Key Features:

  • Monophonic analog synthesizer with interchangeable filter cartridges
  • Emulation of classic filters: Moog, Oberheim, ARP
  • Comprehensive MIDI compatibility for seamless integration
  • Discrete VCO design for rich, authentic analog sound
  • Real-time control with rotary knobs and switches
  • Dedicated LFO and envelope settings for dynamic sound shaping

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Studio Electronics ATC-1.

Mods and upgrades

  • Pharmasonic VCF cartridges are taller than factory slots, suggesting a possible need for a snake/extender cable for connection compatibility.

    Source

Build quality

  • The rear slot of the ATC-1 is too small for some third-party cartridges, indicating potential design limitations for aftermarket compatibility.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The ATC-1 supports various VCF cartridges, including factory Moog, SEM, 2600, and 303 models, plus Pharmasonic options like Polyvox and SH101.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ATC-1 can accommodate a range of sonic textures with different VCF cartridge options, such as the classic Moog and the more aggressive Polyvox.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Studio Electronics ATC1

soundonsound.com

Studio Electronics' ATC-1 is a monophonic analog synthesizer that impresses with its flexibility and raw sound quality, thanks to its innovative filter cartridge system. The ability to switch between filters like the Minimoog and TB303 allows musicians to tailor their sound, making it a versatile choice for those chasing vintage tones. While the editing knob lacks precision for fine adjustments and the unit occasionally crashes, the ATC-1's modular nature and excellent sound make it a compelling alternative to classic synths. For those seeking an expandable and customizable mono synth, the ATC-1 is a solid contender.

positive

Studio Electronics ATC1

soundonsound.com

Studio Electronics' ATC-1 is a versatile synthesizer that promises to capture the essence of vintage analog sounds with its unique plug-in filter cartridges. Its design, reminiscent of a Moog Source, allows for diverse sound creation, from rich basses to peculiar effects. The ATC-1 impresses with its warm lead voices and substantial bass presence, making it a solid choice for those seeking classic synth textures. However, the cumbersome filter cartridge system and rear power switch are notable design flaws. Despite these quirks, the ATC-1 is a promising tool for enthusiasts willing to explore its sonic possibilities.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
michael_pohl

really, really good, except you need high speed envelopes

Ok, the envelopes are not that good but the sound itself is superb! It has something in it that reminds me of Dotcom synths. All 4 filter cards sound just perfect, especially the SEM type makes a beautiful sound. It delivers everything you need without clean precision (in terms of snappiness) but with brutal warmth and richness. Just sounds expensive! The first revision (the one I have) has CV/Gate in/out. The Gate in crashes the unit's software when it receives too fast triggers, so no audio rate gating possible.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Boys Noize uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Boys Noize

Music Producer

Dog Blood

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from November 3, 2016

See how Nick McCabe uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Nick McCabe

Guitarist

The Verve

...
Verified via Facebook

In this photo, a bit of McCabe's Studio Electronics ATC-1 can be seen.

See how Vitalic uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Vitalic

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

"The ATC-1 is one of my oldest synth. It's kind of minimoog style. I don't it too much but I will never sell it's part of my story. [...] Yes, I use it with midi and Ableton.

See how Gui Boratto uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Gui Boratto

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

A Studio Electronics ATC-1 can be seen in this photo of Gui Boratto in his studio.

See how Tim Gane uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Tim Gane

Guitarist, Bassist

Stereolab

...
Verified via Koly

This is a full list of Stereolab's live and studio equipment, circa. 2004.

See how Harry Gregson-Williams uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Harry Gregson-Williams

Composer, Music Producer

Kind Heaven Orchestra

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen in his equipment rack at 7:09 in the video.

See how DJ Umek uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

DJ Umek

Music Producer

Chris Liebing & Umek

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:03 in this Future Music interview, DJ Umek can be seen with a Studio Electronics ATC-1 analog synthesizer behind him in the console on the right of the shot.

See how Jack Steadman uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Jack Steadman

Singer, Guitarist

Bombay Bicycle Club

...
Verified via DrownedInSound

In a Drowned In Sound interview, Jack Steadman says, "I have a Studio Electronics ATC-1 synth for bass and both a Juno-6 and a Matrix 1000 for pads/leads."

See how Soulwax uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Soulwax

Guitarist, Bassist

Soulwax

...
Verified via YouTube

The item can be seen 1:28 into this video.

See how Tiga uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Tiga

Music Producer

Tiga & Zyntherius

...
Verified via YouTube

The item can be seen 2:58 into this video.

See how Battlecat uses Studio Electronics ATC-1

Battlecat

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video at 10:00 Battlecat shows the different racks he uses to get the battlecat sound. Including the Studio Electronics ATC-1

U

Umek

...
Verified via YouTube

Umek is shown to be using the Studio Electronics ATC-1 in the first secondes of the video, as he explains his studio workflow.

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 Studio Electronics ATC-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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