The Arturia MiniFreak Vocoder Edition is a 6-voice hybrid polysynth and voice synthesis keyboard that combines dual digital sound engines, a 16-band vocoder, and polyphonic analogue filters with a gooseneck microphone and integrated performance features for advanced sound design and live expression.

Vocoder Synth and Voice Synthesis

The 16-band vocoder engine enables classic speech synthesis using the included detachable gooseneck microphone or any external input. Users can blend vocal signals with the MiniFreak’s oscillators, freeze formants for metallic drones, or create talkbox-style growls routed through the onboard effects. This setup expands the unit into a performance synth tailored for expressive vocal manipulation and spectral textures.

Hybrid Sound Engine Architecture

MiniFreak Vocoder Edition houses two digital sound engines with 31 oscillator modes, which operate independently, in parallel, or as audio processors for one another. This inter-engine modulation allows complex sonic interactions, and each of the six voices runs through a true polyphonic analogue filter and VCA path, fusing digital precision with analogue warmth.

Modulation and Sound Design Tools

This polyphonic synthesizer features a powerful modulation matrix with seven sources and thirteen destinations, user-definable LFO curves, and a suite of tools for shaping audio including polyphonic ADSR envelopes, a cycling envelope, two per-voice LFOs, FM synthesis, and Ring Modulation. The Spice & Dice randomisation functions allow intuitive experimentation with evolving textures and patterns.

Performance and Expressive Control

Designed as a performance synth, it includes a 37-note velocity-sensitive slim keybed with aftertouch, a 64-step sequencer with four pages of modulation, and an arpeggiator featuring functions like Ratchet and Octave Randomise. These real-time tools make it ideal for spontaneous creative sessions and live sets.

Stereo FX and Mixing Capabilities

With three digital effects slots configurable in insert or send mode, the MiniFreak Vocoder supports over ten effect types such as stereo chorus, distortion, 3-band EQ and delay, all fine-tuned for mix-ready stereo output. USB, MIDI in/out/thru, clock I/O, and audio input connectivity ensure seamless integration into studio and live environments.

Software Integration

Included with the hardware is MiniFreak V, a VST counterpart that mirrors the hardware architecture and sound engine. This software version allows seamless preset sharing and total DAW integration, preserving the unique sonic capabilities of the vocoder synth in digital production workflows.