Groove Synthesis has announced the 3rd Wave 8M – a compact desktop synthesiser to a more accessible price point, without compromising on sound quality or core features.
Building on the success of the flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave models 24K and 24M, the new 8M features 8 voices of polyphony and bi-timbral operation in a streamlined desktop format. Priced at $1,999 USD, the 8M delivers the same premium sound quality and cutting-edge synthesis capabilities that have made Groove Synthesis a favourite among producers, composers, and performers worldwide.
“We created the 8M to bring the distinct 3rd Wave sonic character and sound design capabilities to more musicians and producers,” said Bob Coover, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “This isn’t a watered-down version of our flagship 24-voice models. The signal processing chain, analog electronics, and the sound are the same as on the 24. The 8M just makes the 3rd Wave experience accessible to musicians, sound designers, and producers who don’t need the full scale system.”
The 3rd Wave 8M maintains complete patch compatibility with the 24-voice 3rd Wave models, allowing users to seamlessly integrate the 8M into existing setups or upgrade to larger models in the future. The streamlined user interface focuses on performance-oriented controls while utilizing a larger, more intuitive display for deep sound design capabilities.
Key features of the 3rd Wave 8M include:
- 8-Voice Polyphony: Full 3rd Wave sound engine with 8 voices and three oscillators per voice
- Complete Synthesis Toolset: Wavetable synthesis, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling
- Bi-timbral: Two independent parts for layering and splitting
- Complete Patch Compatibility: Seamless integration with 24-voice 3rd Wave models
- 8 Analog Filters and Output Stage: The same premium analog filters and output circuit design as flagship 24-voice models, 24K and 24M
- Streamlined Interface: Performance-oriented, expressive control set with larger display
- Multiple Outputs: 4 balanced outputs for flexible studio integration
- Compact Design: Smaller footprint ideal for desktop or touring setups
“As a bunch of synth enthusiasts ourselves, we know that the sound is everything,” said Andrew Silverman, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “The 8M has the full DNA of our flagship models. We’ve carefully considered what matters most to musicians and sound designers, preserving the elements that define our sound while creating a more accessible entry point to the 3rd Wave sonic universe.”
The 3rd Wave 8M continues the Groove Synthesis tradition of combining vintage inspiration with modern capabilities. While the 3rd Wave has roots in the classic digital wavetable synths of the past, it takes that concept into the 21st century with a lush, expansive sound that’s a product of its expanded wavetables and warm, organic analog filters. The intuitive, performance-focused interface avoids menu diving for a natural control flow, preserving and adapting the vital parts of the keyboard’s controls in a compact format.
Availability
The 3rd Wave 8M is expected to be available and shipping in July 2025 for $1,999 USD. For more information and to find a dealer, visit www.groovesynthesis.com.
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