Arturia MiniBrute

25-Key All-analog Monophonic Synthesizer

FULL-BLAST ANALOG SYNTHESIZER

MiniBrute is a revolutionary new analog synthesizer from Arturia. Featuring a pure analog signal path and a host of unique features, it sets a new standard for what a hardware synthesizer should be. 

 

Its 100% analog audio signal path features a VCO wave mixer, the classic Steiner-Parker multimode filter, as well as numerous analog innovations such as the Metalizer, Ultrasaw, and the Brute Factor™. Boasting a complete MIDI, CV and USB connectivity, MiniBrute is right at home with your computer or your vintage synths, making it the ideal companion to deliver a pure analog blast anywhere you go.

 

MAIN FEATURES:

Monophonic synthesizer

100% Analog Audio Signal Path

Steiner-Parker Multimode Filter (LP, BP, HP and Notch)

Voltage Controlled Oscillator with Sub-Osc

Oscillator Mixer (Sub, Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, White Noise, Audio In)

LFO1 with 6 waveforms and bi-polar modulation destinations

LFO2 with 3 vibrato modes

Brute Factor™ delivering saturation and rich harmonics

Ultrasaw generating shimmering sawtooth waveforms

Metalizer bringing extreme triangle harmonics

Two ADSR Envelope Generators

25 note Keyboard with Aftertouch

Rugged Aluminium Enclosure

External Analog Audio Input

CV In/Out controls: Pitch, Gate, Filter, Amp

MIDI In/Out with 5-Pin DIN connectors

USB MIDI In/Out

1/4” Audio Output and 1/4” Headphone Output

Gate Source Selection: Audio Input, Hold, Keyboard

Arpeggiator:

4 Modes of Arpeggiation

4 Octave Range Control

6 Time Divisions

Swing Control

 

The MiniBrute's roots stretch all the way back to the 1970's, but it's most definitely a child of the 21st century. It proudly stands among the MS-20s, Odysseys, Pro-Ones and Minimoogs while bringing its own personality and powerful sonic imprint.

 

Today, too many musicians miss the opportunity to own an original analog synth due to skyrocketing second hand prices, and the minefield of ongoing maintenance. MiniBrute is aimed at providing them the gratifying and fun experience of true analog synthesis with an instrument that does not compromise on quality.

 

Crafted by the company that has brought numerous innovations such as the Origin modular synthesizer an many top rated software synthesizers, MiniBrute brings state of the art functionality that was missing on the first analog instruments: MIDI/CV control, improved stability, sophisticated arpeggiator, USB connectivity and so on. MiniBrute contains many innovations that fit today's musical needs.

 

Just like on the original analog synthesizers, MiniBrute features a Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO). This VCO is coupled to a wave mixer allowing you to create custom waveshapes by mixing sawtooth, triangle, square, and white noise signals as well as external audio signals.

 

These are more than beautifully formed analog waves though. They feature unique wave-shaping functions we call the Metalizer and Ultrasaw, which gives MiniBrute a sound all its own.

 

And underneath all of these three mind-expanding waveforms is Add to that a bass-bin shaking Sub Oscillator. MiniBrute is a killer analog synth for bass lines, leads, arpeggios and effects.

 

We will say it again, MiniBrute's audio path is 100% analog. Only the arpeggiator and the LFO sections are digital to so as to allow for external synchronization. 

 

 

While developing MiniBrute, we looked long and hard for a filter design that was versatile, powerful, and full of character.

 

Our researches led us to the Steiner-Parker filter. In it we found an expertly designed, exceptional sounding boutique filter featured on the rare and revered 1970's Synthacon synthesizer. The Steiner-Parker 2-pole filter is multi-mode, meaning you can filter the oscillators and external audio through Low pass, Band Pass, High Pass, and Notch curves.

 

Checked and validated by Nyle Steiner himself, the Steiner-Parker filter brings MiniBrute a sound palette that we believe no other analog hardware synthesizer can match. 

 

MiniBrute invites you to take a journey in analog synthesis, which includes the original pleasure of hands-on sound creation. No hidden sub-menus, and no presets. You take immediate control over your sound by moving each individual knob and slider, leading you to spontaneous and creative results.

 

MiniBrute is laid out in a very ergonomic way, to simplify the workflow of the experienced synthesist and to provide an easy to use interface for the newcomer in subtractive synthesis.

 

When saving a preset, simply use one of the transparent preset sheets provided with MiniBrute and, literally, put your marks on it. MiniBrute also comes with a set of 10 preset sheets to give you inspiration for making your own basses, leads, arpeggios and FX. Look for an iPAD app in the future that will allow you to organize, share and create your own preset sheets. 

 

What sounds can you make with MiniBrute? MiniBrute is capable of delivering the deepest basses, screaming leads, acid basslines, hypnotic arpeggios, outstanding FX's with an unmistakable sonic edge.

 

If you tame the Filter and Brute Factor™, MiniBrute is also capable of the typical classic retro sci-fi tones and vintage analog synth sounds.

 

At the end of the day, you get an extremely wide palette for a monophonic synthesizer, with a lot of character. 

 

MiniBrute is portable enough for even the most nomadic (and space-conscious) of musicians. 

 

Its slim size and light weight (less than 4 kg / 8.8 lbs) make it a hands-on analog powerhouse that you can easily carry from your studio, to rehearsal room, to the gig, and back home.

 

Built in a rock-solid aluminium housing, MiniBrute is certainly an instrument of choice to play on stage. Its tuning stability, compared to vintage synthesizers (and even to some contemporary analog synthesizers), make it a reliable solution when you need to nail a live performance. 

 

Our R&D teamed up with synth "Guru" Yves Usson to design the best modules for the Minibrute.

 

Pulse Width Modulation is a well known effect for the square wave which gives a sound effect similar to a chorus - let's say slightly detuned oscillators played together. MiniBrute does this but also brings unique new options for the Triangle and Saw waves:

 

Ultrasaw produces a lively and bright ensemble effect on the sawtooth waveform, and Metalizer adds complex harmonics to the triangle waveform. Last but not least, the Brute Factor will allow you to add everything from a subtle drive effect to full blown intermodulation havoc when pushed. 

 

Besides our skilful in house engineers, Arturia teamed up with three talented people who share the same passion for analog synthesis.

 

Yves Usson is the man behind the "Yusynth" project. He created some of the world's finest analog modules and he is the designer of the original analog circuits in MiniBrute. 

 

Nyle Steiner, the engineer who designed the original Steiner-Parker filter and several other innovative instruments for his own brand and for Crumar and Akai, was consulted to approve the adaptations of his filter in MiniBrute. He also contributed some very important tweaks that broaden the cutoff and resonance response even further. 

 

Axel Hartmann designed the MiniBrutes body and layout, paying tribute to classic designs of the late 70's and early 80's, while bringing a modern edge that nicely echoes the fact this is a 21st Century synthesizer. 

 

MiniBrute is a one-of-a kind synthesizer with a huge personality that it will easily find a place in your tracks, whether you play electronic, hip hop, new wave, electro rock or any other modern musical genres.

 

Its distinctive warm, full-bodied and sometimes aggressive character draws its energy from a signal path that is totally unique.

 

When putting your hands on it, you will be greatly surprised by how much sonic power it has, and you will also be pleased to see that you can also tame it to obtain many classic softer analog tones. 

 

MiniBrute features a MIDI Input so it can be controlled by any MIDI device. This is useful if you want to drive MiniBrute from a hardware sequencer or a longer keyboard.

 

The MIDI Out Port allows you to use MiniBrute as a master MIDI keyboard, so MiniBrute can control external synthesizer modules, or anything else you own with a MIDI In Port!

 

But that's not all - you can also synchronize MiniBrute's arpeggiator with an incoming MIDI clock. This way, you can play arpeggios on MiniBrute that are locked in-sync with external drum machines, computers, or other MIDI equipment. Furthermore, the LFO1 can also be synced to the Arpeggiator, allowing for rhythmic Filter, Pitch and Amp modulations that are always in sync with your arpeggios, and your other equipment. 

 

Thanks to its Control Voltage (CV) Gate Inputs, you can connect MiniBrute to vintage synths, or any modular synthesizer, and use it as a sound expander. With its CV Outs, MiniBrute becomes the perfect controller for any CV-Controllable synthesizers plus it can act as a MIDI > CV converter.

 

By using the Gate In with the Trigger Output of a drum machine (or actually any loud incoming trigger signal), MiniBrute becomes a powerful device for generating electronic basslines on the fly. 

 

MiniBrute is fully USB compatible, which means you can sequence it from your DAW without needing a MIDI interface. This is particularly handy when you want to use your laptop along with MiniBrute on stage.

 

MiniBrute will also transform the USB and MIDI incoming signals into CV Pitch Out and Gate Out, making it a great converter to control vintage synths from your computer or MIDI interface. 

 

MiniBrute comes with two LFO's. One is dedicated to the vibrato and can allow for simple vibrato or trills . The second LFO can be routed to several destinations at one time. Offering six waveforms and bi-polar modulation destinations, this second LFO allows for extreme modulation possibilities. 

 

Two ADSR envelopes can be set to fast or slow modes. This unique feature allows for super tight basses and percussive sounds or drawn out ambiences. 

 

Everything is at your fingertips. 

 

MiniBrute features a full set of 29 high precision knobs, 14 metal sliders and 8 metal switches that offer direct control over your sound.

 

Don't be intimidated; you will probably experience a much faster learning curve than on any of your digital equipment. Indeed, everything on MiniBrute is laid out in a very comprehensive manner. 

 

You want to make it brighter? Grab the Cutoff knob and turn it up. You want to make it fatter? Grab the Sub Osc slider and move it up. You want your sound to grow fangs and snarl like a beast ? Grab the Brute Factor knob and crank it. MiniBrute allows for a fast connection between your ideas and your sound... and it will also take you into adventurous sonic territories. 

 

MiniBrute features a quality 25 note semi-weighted keyboard, including velocity and aftertouch response for a fast and expressive performance. 

 

The Aftertouch can be routed to the Cutoff or Vibrato amounts for increased feel and control.

 

To quickly add lively variations to your leads and basses, use the Pitch and Modulation wheels. The Modulation wheel can be set to control the Cutoff, Vibrato, and LFO amounts. 

 

MiniBrute comes in a heavy duty aluminium housing that will stand up to years of intensive use in the studio or on stage. Mechanical components have also been carefully selected, from quality metal sliders, to ALPS switches to an industry standard green PCB ensuring long lasting performance. By applying the quality standards of modern manufacturing to a classic design, MiniBrute guarantees to have a pure analog sound while being extremely reliable over time like its vintage ancestors.

 

MiniBrute's manual was edited by Craig Anderton, written by Yves Usson and Antoine Back. It is available in English, Japanese and French. 

 

The manual will give you relevant information to quickly start making sounds while bringing a comprehensive and useful introduction to subtractive synthesis. 

 

To complete the didactic side of the manual, MiniBrute also comes with a set of 10 preset sheets, giving you starting points from where you will be able to create your own sound signature. 

 

MiniBrute's printed circuit boards are thoroughly tested with over 200 checkpoints, ensuring top quality at the end of the production line. Checked units are then submitted to individual hand calibration. 

 

Before getting shipped, units are then tested again. All functions are checked so we make sure your unit will work the way it should. 

 

1/ 100% Analog Power

 

Combining the renowned savoir-faire of ARTURIA in designing professional musical instruments, and the expertise of synth "guru" Yves USSON in crafting the finest analog modules, MiniBrute is a revolutionary analog synthesizer

 

MiniBrute was built with a simple goal in mind: offer great analog sound, through a very easy to use interface, and without ever compromising on quality. 

 

The result of fine R&D and skilled craftsmanship: a 100% Analog Audio signal path, delivering huge basslines, screaming leads, outstanding arpeggios and FX’s. Analog synthesizers of yesteryear are highly sought-after on the second hand market for their warmth, fatness, slight instability, and their unmistakable sonic character. Digital synths, on their part, offer more possibilities but tend to sound sometimes sterile and loose musicians in endless menus and boring sound digest concepts. 

 

Today, MiniBrute comes as a bold statement, standing proudly among legendary analog machines like the Minimoog, Pro-One, SH-101, MS-20, and Odyssey. MiniBrute, brings the finest analog sounds as heard on iconic electronic records, whilst imprinting its own unique features and strong attitude.

 

2/ Hands-on heaven

 

Forget about tiny LCD screens, forget about menus and sub-menus, forget about double functions and complex control. Minibrute brings back the fun and the immediate hands-on experience of synthesis.

 

You want to make it stronger? Grab the sub-osc slider and move it up. You want it brighter? Grab the filter cutoff knob and turn it up. You want your sound to grow fangs and snarl like a beast? Grab the Brute Factor knob and turn it up! It’s that easy.

 

Drag your mouse over the image below to learn how easily you can dive in the pleasure of sound creation:

 

3/ Connect to the world

 

Thanks to its full MIDI/CV/USB connectivity, MiniBrute is designed to fit seamlessly in any modern or vintage studio.

MIDI In/Out : Sequence MiniBrute from your computer’s MIDI interface and DAW, or any MIDI gear. Alternatively use MiniBrute as a master MIDI keyboard.

CV Gate In/Out : Chain MiniBrute to your vintage synthesizer to get a beefier sound. Remotely sequence MiniBrute from your vintage sequencer. Use MiniBrute to control your vintage synths (CV/Volt).

USB In/Out: Sequence MiniBrute directly from your computer’s DAW without needing a MIDI interface. Use MiniBrute as a USB-MIDI controller.

Audio In : Process any external sound through MiniBrute’s filter, VCA and Brute FactorTM circuit. MiniBrute can be used as an analog powerhouse for adding warmth, grit and filter effects to drums, guitars, vocals, and more.. . It will alternatively generate automatic basslines from percussive sounds by switching the Gate source selector to audio.

 

MiniBrute can also be used as a MIDI to CV Gate interface, ensuring the link between your computer-based studio and your vintage gear.

 

4/ Sounds with an attitude

 

So what does MiniBrute sound like?

 

MiniBrute is certainly not capable of producing all the types of sounds, but it does very well what it is designed for : classic analog sounds, including powerful basses, hypnotic drones, screaming leads, acid sequences, ethereal monopads, 80’s arpeggios, mind blowing FX’s and fascinating sonic experiments.

 

If you are more into deep funky basses, mellow leads, clavinet or woodwind-like sounds, Minibrute can produce them as well, but the danger zone is always at a twist of a knob…MiniBrute delivers a deep bass and a lead sound using the glide function.

 

Box content:

User manual

Preset sheets

Power supply

 

Size & weight:

Instrument size : 325 x 390 x70 mm (12.79 x 15.35 x 2.76 inch)

Instrument weight : 4 kg (8.8 lbs)

 

MiniBrute Specifications :

Monophonic synthesizer

100% Analog Audio Signal Path

Steiner-Parker 2 pole Multimode Filter (Low Pass, Band Pass, High Pass and Notch)

Voltage Controlled Oscillator with Sub-Osc (Square, Sine, -1 & -2 oct)

Oscillator Mixer (Sub, Sawtooth, Square, Triangle, White Noise, Audio In)

 

Signal Enhancers :

Pulse Width Modulation

Ultrasaw generating shimmering sawtooth waveforms

Metalizer bringing extreme triangle harmonics

Brute Factor delivering saturation and rich harmonics

LFO1 with 6 waveforms (Sine, Triangle, Sawtooth, Square, Random Square, Random Sine) and bi-polar modulation destinations (to PWM & Metalize, Pitch, Filter, Amplifier)

LFO1 clock syncable to Arpeggiator (Arpeg, or free).

LFO2 with selectable rate and 3 vibrato modes (trill up, trill down, sine)

Two ADSR Envelope Generators with selectable slow/fast speed (from 1 millisecond to more than 10 seconds)

Keyboard Tracking on the VCF Cutoff

25 note semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch (assignable to Cutoff or Vibrato amount)

Mod Wheel (assignable to Cutoff, Vibrato, or LFO amount)

Pitch Wheel (with selectable bend range)

Octave selector from -2 to +2 octaves

External Analog Audio Input

CV In/Out controls: Pitch, Filter, Amp

MIDI In/Out with 5 pin DIN connectors

USB MIDI In/Out

CV Gate source selector (Audio/Hold/Keyboard)

1/4” Audio Output and 1/4” Headphone Output

 

Full Function Arpeggiator:

4 modes of arpeggiation

4 octave range control

6 step divisions

6 Swing positions

Hold function

Tempo knob

Tap tempo

MIDI Sync

Rugged Aluminium enclosure

12V DC 1A power