Arturia MicroFreak Stellar Edition

The Arturia MICROFREAK Stellar Paraphonic Hybrid Synthesizer combines the best of analog and digital synthesis engines, offering a diverse tonal palette for creating virtually any sound. Building on the original MicroFreak’s success, this limited-edition 'Stellar' version introduces new features and an updated finish. It includes three new granular synthesis engines—Scan, Cloud, and Hit modes—allowing for deep exploration of granular synthesis. Additionally, a new sampling engine lets you manipulate and trigger recorded audio.

All original modes remain, including analog modeling and Karplus-Strong, alongside the legendary Plaits oscillator modes from Mutable Instruments via open source. The MicroFreak also features a rich 12dB/oct analog filter, allowing precise sound shaping. Known for its warmth and distinctive character, the MicroFreak excels in music production, sound design, and live performance.

The onboard sequencer and polyphonic touch keyboard enable loop creation, melody crafting, and expressive live performances. With extensive connectivity options, the MicroFreak integrates with a wide range of audio gear, from external synths to CV gear like Eurorack modules. The updated design features custom graphics, including spaceships and rockets, enhancing its visual appeal.

New Engines and Updated Design

The limited edition MicroFreak Stellar not only boasts a new look but also introduces four powerful new engines. The sampling engine allows you to manipulate and trigger recorded audio directly on the device, running samples through the robust analog filter and modulation controls. The three new granular engines—Scan, Cloud, and Hit modes—open up new possibilities for granular synthesis.

The new all-grey finish with space-age-inspired graphics, featuring spaceships, planets, rockets, and satellites, adds a unique touch. Whether you’re an Arturia fan or a musician looking to expand your sound palette, the MicroFreak Stellar is an excellent choice.

Packed with Algorithms and Sound Design Options

The latest update includes three new algorithms: bass, sawX, and harm, from Noise Engineering’s Virt Iter module. These provide access to additive harmonic color, wavefolding, modulation, and more. Four-voice unison mode, now available for all oscillator types, offers a unison spread of up to 12 semitones, perfect for creating "phat" basses and melodies.

Preset slots have expanded from 256 to 384, offering greater flexibility for accommodating your workflow. The instant nature of saving and recalling sounds is particularly useful in high-pressure environments like on-stage performances and studio sessions.

Multimode Filtering

The versatile digital oscillators in the MicroFreak feature various modes, enabling the creation of unique sounds with ease. Modes like Texturer, Karplus-Strong, Harmonic OSC, and Superwave provide a vast range for crafting your own soundscapes. Ideal for those seeking an instrument with a versatile sound set, the MicroFreak’s flexible and powerful synthesizer engine suits numerous applications.

Plaits by Mutable Instruments

Arturia has integrated Mutable Instruments' Plaits, an iconic Eurorack module beloved by the modular community, into the MicroFreak. This allows you to enjoy Plaits’ beautiful sounds in a compact, performable hardware synthesizer.

Classic Filter with New Methods

The MicroFreak’s 12dB/Oct analog filter can scream or whisper, and its state-variable design can self-oscillate, offering new realms of sound design. Modulate the cut-off with keyboard pressure or the sequencer, adding the perfect touch to your sound design or tempering abrasive wavetable sounds.

Expressive and Performative

The PCB keyboard on the MicroFreak stands out with its lightning-fast tracking and expressive capabilities. Route keyboard pressure to various parameters or control pressure-sensitive software synths with MIDI compatibility. Though unconventional, this keyboard enhances the MicroFreak’s expressive playability.