Polivoks-8 is an eight-voice polyphonic, dual-VCF, bi-timbral analog synthesizer, available in both desktop and 4U rack-mount formats. Inspired by the legendary soviet Formanta Polivoks, it combines authentic analog circuitry with modern flexibility and control, delivering a bold, distinctive sonic character for the studio or stage.
Oscillators
Each of the eight voices features two fully analog oscillators with FM, Sync, and Ring Modulation capabilities, plus a dedicated sub oscillator per voice. Choose from the classic trio of analog waveforms with PWM and fixed pulse options - perfect for fat basses, lush pads, and sharp leads. A versatile analog noise generator provides both white and pink noise to enrich your sound palette.
Filters
Every voice is equipped with two analog voltage-controlled filters that can be freely routed in serial, parallel, or any blend in between.
VCF 1: A classic Polivoks-type filter, originally designed by Vladimir Kuzmin for the iconic Formanta Polivoks synthesizer. Built around genuine soviet K140UD12 OTAs, it delivers a distinct character – aggressive, expressive, and alive. It features 12 dB low-pass and 6 dB bypass responses, controllable input saturation, and true analog FM for deep timbral shaping.
VCF 2: An improved ladder-style filter offering a 24 dB low-pass response with resonance drop compensation, ensuring smooth, consistent behavior across all resonance settings. Together, these filters unlock a vast range of tonal possibilities - from searing acid sequences to silky ambient textures.
Amplifier Section
Each voice includes three VCAs: one master VCA plus a stereo pair for pan modulation, enabling dynamic spatial movement and immersive sound design.
Envelope Generators
Three independent envelope generators per voice are pre-routed to the VCF, VCA, and VCO. Each can be freely re-patched, with multiple curve types available for precise control over contour and its response.
LFOs
The Polivoks-8 features one global analog LFO (modulated triangle waveform)and eight per-voice LFOs with a wide selection of waveforms - including the ability to create and save user-captured waveforms per patch, offering limitless modulation potential.
Arpeggiator & Sequencer
Each patch or timbre includes a classic arpeggiator and step sequencer, both fully programmable for intricate rhythmic and melodic motion in bi-timbral mode.
Joystick Modulation
A built-in analog joystick allows expressive real-time control. Movements can be recorded and replayed as modulation sources or even used as custom LFO waveforms, adding another layer of performance creativity.
Sound Storage
Store up to 1024 patches (256 factory + 768 user slots) across eight sound banks with 128 patches per bank.
Connectivity
Audio: Mono input for external signal processing, stereo main output, and stereo headphone output. MIDI: Classic 5-pin DIN I/O/T plus high-speed USB MIDI I/O for seamless integration with modern setups.
Control Panel
The interface features high-quality, 360° endless encoders for all parameters and a dedicated master volume potentiometer. Durable Digitast-type switches ensure a solid, tactile feel. Crisp 3.2-inch monochrome OLED for clear visual feedback rounds the control.