Donner Announces Essential L1 Monophonic Analog Synthesizer

Donner has announced the Essential L1 monophonic analog synthesizer inspired by the Roland SH101.

The L1 features a 3340 VCO, 3109 low-pass filter, and 662 VCA. Modulation options include two velocity-sensitive, 4-phase envelope generators and a synchronizable LFO. A 64-step sequencer with song mode supports 128 patterns (4 per song) and is joined by a 5-mode arpeggiator. The L1 also expands on the original SH101 design by adding additional waveforms such as a triangle, and an additional envelope generator.

Connectivity includes MIDI I/O (mini TRS, Type-A), USB (Type-C), SYNC I/O, CV OUT, GATE OUT, and Phones. The L1 can also connect to the KB-32M keyboard (sold separately) via Donner's Snap2Connect (S2C) magnetic docking system.

Features

• Classic analog sound: Based on the 3340 VCO, 3109 low-pass filter, and 662 VCA chips.
• Snap2Connect (S2C) system: Allows for cable-free connection to compatible keyboards like the KB-32M.
• Dual envelope generators: Two velocity-sensitive, 4-phase envelopes, with the option to merge them.
• Versatile LFO: Offers multiple waveforms and can be synced.
• Drone mode: For creating ambient soundscapes and processing external audio.
• 64-step sequencer: With song mode, supports 128 patterns and 4 patterns per song.
• 5-mode arpeggiator: Provides a range of rhythmic possibilities.
• Comprehensive connectivity: EXT. IN, MAIN OUT, HOLD PEDAL, MIDI I/O (mini TRS, Type-A), USB (Type-C), SYNC I/O, CV OUT, GATE OUT, PHONES.
• Compact and portable: Weighs under 900g and is only 30mm high (excluding caps).

Pricing and Availability

The L1 is available for pre-order at an introductory price of $237.99 and is expected to ship May 26th, 2025.

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