FM | FILTER
The Uno Synth Pro X adds more hands-on control and gritty, 303-inspired bass tools
>IK Multimedia has launched a new desktop version of its Uno Synth Pro. Rather than being a simple keyboard-free port, however, the Uno Synth Pro X takes the analogue paraphonic synth engine of the original and gives it a significantly reworked interface that places extra emphasis on hands-on editing.
Under the hood, the Pro X has that same design that impressed us when we reviewed the original Pro back in 2021. There are three oscillators with continuously variable wave shapes, capable of sync, FM and ring modulation. Its secret weapon lies in the dual state variable filters, one OTA design, one SSI, which can be arranged in series or parallel to create a total of 24 different filter setups between them.
Alongside the core sound generation tools, the Uno Synth Pro X has a 16 slot modulation matrix, which can be fed with three ADSR envelopes – one more than on the standard Pro – and two multi-mode LFOs. There are three digital effect slots too, offering multiple varieties of digital modulation, reverb and delay effects. These have been overhauled slightly from those offered on the previous models, adding new modes including an atmospheric shimmer reverb.
Where the Pro X deviates from the existing Pro and Desktop models is in the design of its user interface. The previous models used a combination of macro rotaries, screens and buttons to edit the sound engines, a setup that worked fine but required a fair amount of menu browsing and sharing of controls. The Pro X switches that design for a rotarypacked layout that lets users get hands-on with the sound shaping parameters for a more tactile experience. The Pro X also ditches the keys of its predecessors in favour of a button keyboard/sequencer equipped with an arpeggiator and randomisation feature.
The other notable addition to the Pro X is the new Bassline Mode. This alters the behaviour of the synth engine to mimic some of the response of a TB-303. When engaged, users can add accented steps to the sequencer, with controls for level and decay of the accents, which boost the filter and amp in a manner similar to Roland’s iconic acid synth. Obviously, with three oscillators and multiple filters, the Pro X has a lot more going on than a 303. From getting hands-on, we can confirm that the combination of 303 influence and a more extensive sound engine (and sequencer) opens the doors to a lot of raspy, gritty bassline fun. The Pro X also adds an analogue drive circuit controlled via its master section, which can add a lovely touch of extra weight.
The Uno Synth Pro X is available for order now, priced at 500 Euros (excluding VAT).
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