Modal Electronics Carbon8

The Modal Carbon8 is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesiser that combines dual 56-core oscillators, 18 algorithms, 38 wavetables, 34 filter types, advanced modulation, a 512-note sequencer, MPE support, and studio-grade effects within a rugged aluminium and steel chassis.

Sound Engine

At its core, Carbon8 delivers two high-powered oscillators, each equipped with 56 cores. These generate 18 algorithms and 38 wavetables, producing a vast sonic palette from lush pads and evolving textures to aggressive basses and razor-sharp leads. The XCore engine introduces sophisticated waveform manipulation through phase distortion and wave-shaping, allowing musicians to bend, fold and reshape sound with remarkable detail and clarity.

Filter Section

The synthesiser offers 34 distinct filter types, including morphable and static variations. These span classic analogue emulations to hybrid modern designs, enabling everything from warm, resonant bass to shimmering highs. Morphable filters create smooth tonal transitions, while static filters allow precise shaping, complemented by resonance and drive for further character.

Modulation and Control

Three LFOs with variable waveforms and three dedicated envelope generators provide extensive modulation capabilities. With 12 assignable modulation slots and four fixed routings, users can create dynamic soundscapes, rhythmic patterns, or subtle evolutions. This matrix system ensures flexible routing between modulation sources and destinations, supporting highly complex sound design.

Sequencing and Performance

Carbon8 integrates a 512-note step or realtime sequencer with four animation lanes for deep parameter automation. Its 32-step programmable arpeggiator supports chord hold, inversions, transposition and sustain latch, offering a powerful toolkit for performance and composition. MPE compatibility brings expressive control for players using modern controllers.

Keybed and Build

The FATAR TP9/S keybed with velocity and aftertouch provides a highly responsive playing experience. The instrument uses an aluminium and steel chassis for road-ready durability. Hands-on control comes from 29 endless encoders, 24 buttons, and an assignable X/Y joystick, offering immediate access to performance shaping. Multiple keyboard modes, including Poly, Mono, Unison and Stack, enhance flexibility.

Effects

Three independent stereo FX engines provide 26 studio-quality processors. These include reverbs, delays, chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo, compression and EQ, enabling detailed tonal sculpting and live tweaking.

Connectivity

Carbon8 integrates seamlessly with modern studios and stage rigs. It includes full-size MIDI In/Out, USB-MIDI, 3.5 mm sync I/O, and inputs for sustain and expression pedals. Poly-chain support enables linking two units for 16-voice polyphony, while modular and DAW setups benefit from precise clock synchronisation.

Memory and Software Integration

The synthesiser holds 500 patch slots, with 300 factory presets and 200 user slots. Additional storage includes 100 sequencer presets and 100 user FX slots. MODALapp software provides comprehensive editing and patch management on desktop and mobile platforms.

Warranty

Modal backs Carbon8 with a three-year extended warranty on all products registered after 8 May 2025, offering assurance of long-term reliability.

• 8-voice polyphonic synthesiser with dual 56-core oscillators
• 18 algorithms, 38 wavetables and XCore waveform manipulation
• 34 morphable and static filters with drive and resonance control
• Three LFOs, three envelopes, 12 modulation slots and matrix routing
• 512-note sequencer, 32-step arpeggiator and full MPE support
• FATAR TP9/S keybed, aluminium and steel chassis, joystick and encoders
• Three stereo FX engines with 26 professional effects and MODALapp integration

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.