The Deluge Is A Combined Synth, Step-Sequencer and Sampler

In this video from loopop, we get a demonstration and review of the Deluge, a combined synthesizer, step-sequencer and sampler from Synthstrom. It’s quite remarkable that all of these functions are provided in a single portable device, and this video does a great job in highlighting the product’s strengths and capabilities.

The features supplied by Deluge are quite extensive and we have listed all of them below.

Deluge Features

• Piano-roll-style sequencing on 128 full RGB pads (16×8) with scrolling and zooming.
• Full-featured Internal synthesizer engine (subtractive and FM).
• Plays samples from SD card (up to 32GB SDHC).
• Sequencing limited only by device RAM (many thousands of notes).
• Polyphony limited only by CPU. Typically around 48 synth voices or 64 unaffected sample voices may play.
• 64MB of sample ram – work with up to 12 minutes (if mono) of CD-quality samples per song.
• Live adjustment of synth and effect parameters with two endless-turn encoders with LED level-meters. Easy buttons to select the functions these control. Parameter automation recording.
• Advanced syncing capabilities. Weird time signatures supported. Adjustable swing.
• Dedicated volume and tempo knobs.v
• LFOs and envelopes on each synth / sample. Highly customizable patching matrix.
• Synthesizer engine features LPF / HPF, arpeggiator, portamento, oscillator sync, ring modulation, unison detune, and more. Four basic waveforms, or select any WAV file from the SD card.
• FX including delay, reverb, chorus, flanger, phaser, bitcrushing, sidechain effect, live stutter, and more.
• Time-stretching of samples
• Keyboard mode, where the pads become a live instrument on a 2D grid.
• Preset or custom scales, or chromatic mode.
• Internal speaker, rechargeable Li-ion battery (6+ hours of operation), and microphone.
• 3.5mm mic and ¼” line inputs.
• Two ¼” line outputs, and 3.5mm headphone output.
• 2x CV outputs. 0 – 10V, individually configurable to 1, 1.2, 0.26 or 0.32 volts per octave, or to hertz per volt.
• 4x gate / trigger outputs individually configurable to v-trig or s-trig, with shared voltage switchable between 5V and 12V. Trigger clock output configurable, up to 192 PPQN.
• Trigger clock input, also with adjustable PPQN.
• MIDI input and output via hardware connectors or USB. Syncing via MIDI beat clock as master or slave.
• Simultaneously output separate sequences to all 16 MIDI channels, 2 CV / gate channels and 2 additional gate outputs, in addition to internal synthesizers / samples (limited only by CPU and RAM, as above).
• Powered via USB or 9 – 12V centre-negative (pedal-style) power supply (500mA) (not included).
• User-upgradeable firmware – expect updates from Synthstrom Audible.
• Dimensions: 305mm x 208mm x 46mm (12 x 8.2 x 1.8 inches).
• Weight: 1.5kg

Among the many robust features of Deluge, one of these is the ability to time-stretch and pitch-shift audio. This functionality could be helpful for a variety of applications, from making real-time tempo changes during a live set or even to sandbox rough ideas during a session. The video below demonstrates the Deluge’s time-stretching and pitch-shifting capabilities.

You can visit the Synthstrom website to learn more about Deluge. There is pricing information currently available, however you can sign up for the mailing list to receive updates regarding release details and pricing.

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