Meet Polyvera, Suonobuono’s new hybrid polyphonic wavetable synthesizer and sampler

Boutique manufacturer Suonobuono has launched the Polyvera, a hybrid polyphonic wavetable synthesizer and sampler that blends the gritty charm of vintage digital technology with the warmth of modern analogue sound.

Polyvera features six voices of vintage-inspired digital oscillators paired with modern analogue filters and digital effects. With 36 potentiometers and encoders, along with two OLED displays, the device invites users to dive deep into sound design. A versatile modulation matrix and dual effects, which also retain a certain ‘80s vibe, complete its sound palette.

Polyvera’s oscillators recreate digital artefacts reminiscent of iconic wavetable synthesizers and samplers from the early ‘80s. By reverse-engineering vintage devices from brands like Akai, PPG, Ensoniq, Roland, and E-MU, developers create oscillators that not only deliver high-quality modern sounds but also evoke the gritty character of early digital instruments.

At the heart of Polyvera there are 2 oscillators (wavetable or sampler) with modern and vintage digital styles. Oscillator 1 hosts wavetables with a sub-oscillator, while Oscillator 2 can function as either a wavetable oscillator or a sampler. The latter can be routed to the VCF, to the same VCA as Osc1, or to its own VCA and envelope. Each oscillator can be assigned a specific style, allowing even basic waveforms like sine waves to acquire a unique flair.

You can also load user wavetables and samples directly into the device, or sample audio from external sources through its external inputs.

The oscillators are then routed through a resonant analogue filter with eight filter types, including self-oscillation and a low-pass filter with analogue post-filter distortion. According to Sunonobuno, the filter’s design is based on a classic analogue filter chip.

After four years in development, the Polyvera is set to make its debut at the Roma Modulare fair on 27th-28th September, where attendees will have the chance to experience a pre-production unit firsthand.

Learn more at Suonobuono.