Arturia

From Modular V to Synclavier V – Arturia Software Synthesizers

Since the early 2000s, the young company from Grenoble, France has been a leading name in analog synthesizers, although it all began with software synthesizers and VST plugins. Today, Arturia is one of the world’s top manufacturers of analog synths, MIDI controllers, software instruments and music production tools. Arturia became especially famous for its detailed recreations of legendary vintage synthesizers. Not only do the plugins look authentic, but their sound engine captures the character and behaviour of the original hardware from the 60s, 70s and 80s. After pioneering synth plugins, Arturia expanded its portfolio to include hardware instruments, controller keyboards, USB MIDI controllers, step sequencers and true analog synthesizers, which are now among the company’s most successful product lines.

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At the turn of the millennium, the market saw a surge of VST synthesizers, offering increasingly accurate modelling of classic analog circuits. The Modular V, Arturia’s first software synthesizer, marked a milestone in virtual analog technology. Powered by Arturia’s acclaimed TAE® engine, this plugin delivers a powerful, rich and lively sound that still impresses producers and professional musicians today. At the time of its release, both artists and the specialist press agreed that no other virtual synth had achieved such realism and sonic depth. Choosing the legendary Moog Modular as their first emulation was a bold yet brilliant move. This iconic modular synth shaped electronic music history: Keith Emerson performed the famous synth solo in “Lucky Man” on a Moog Modular, while Wendy Carlos created the groundbreaking album “Switched-On Bach” using the same instrument. A Moog Modular can also be heard on countless recordings by electronic pioneers such as Klaus Schulze and Tangerine Dream.

Vintage Keyboards and the V Collection

Following the Modular V, Arturia released further iconic recreations including the Mini V, ARP2600 V, CS-80 V, Jupiter-8 V, Prophet V, SEM V, Matrix-12 V and the legendary Synclavier V, one of the earliest digital synthesizers. Arturia also expanded into vintage keyboard emulations using advanced physical modelling technology, including the Wurlitzer V, Solina V, B-3 V and Farfisa V. All instruments are available in the renowned Arturia V Collection, one of the most comprehensive bundles of virtual vintage instruments for music production.

Arturia Software & Hardware Synthesizers

Arturia’s experience in modelling classic instruments led to the development of its first hardware synthesizer, the Origin. This powerful keyboard (also available as a desktop module) allows users to combine different synthesizer architectures in one instrument. Imagine running Moog Modular oscillators through an ARP 2600 filter, or pairing Moog oscillators with Roland Jupiter-8 envelopes — all possible within the Origin’s flexible architecture. Equipped with an advanced arpeggiator and step sequencer, the Origin is designed for full electronic music performance.

Controller Keyboards: Arturia KeyLab

Controlling software synthesizers with a mouse can never replace hands-on control. That’s why Arturia offers a wide range of MIDI controller keyboards, from compact mini-key keyboards for mobile producers to professional 88-key hammer-action master keyboards. The Arturia KeyLab series features high-quality knobs, faders and buttons, making it the perfect USB MIDI controller for studio and stage.

MiniBrute, MicroBrute & MatrixBrute – Arturia Analog Synthesizers

Arturia surprised the industry with the release of the fully analog MiniBrute, entering the world of true analog synthesizers with great success. Unlike many competitors, the MiniBrute and the later MicroBrute are not vintage copies but modern analog synths with innovative features. The Brute series offers USB, MIDI, CV/Gate connectivity and a distinctive, powerful sound. Both models have become modern classics, delivering exceptional sound quality at an affordable price. At the top of the range stands the MatrixBrute, an advanced analog synthesizer combining two Brute engines with extensive CV/Gate inputs and outputs, plus a powerful matrix step sequencer. Arturia also demonstrates the power of analog circuitry in rhythm production with the DrumBrute, an analog drum machine inspired by classic 80s drum computers while adding modern performance features.