Modal Electronics CARBON8M – 8-Voice Experimental Synthesis Module

The CARBON8M is an innovative digital synthesizer module from Modal Electronics, featuring 8-voice polyphony and advanced sound design capabilities. With two 56-core oscillators, it provides access to 18 digital algorithms and 38 advanced wavetables, enabling users to create a wide range of sounds—from bold and aggressive to smooth and atmospheric. The unit includes 34 types of filters, three envelope generators, three LFOs, and 12 modulation slots for in-depth sound sculpting. CARBON8M also features a 512-step step/realtime sequencer, programmable arpeggiator, and MPE support, making it a powerful tool for both studio and live performances.

Key Features

• 8-voice polyphony, expandable to 16 via poly-chain with another unit
• 2 oscillators per voice with 56 cores each, 18 algorithms and 38 wavetables
• 34 filter types including morphable, static, vintage and Modal-designed models
• 3 envelope generators (AMP, MOD, FILTER) and 3 LFOs with over 15 wave shapes
• 12 modulation slots with 12 sources and 55 destinations
• 512-step realtime/step sequencer with 4 animation lanes
• 32-step programmable arpeggiator with advanced functions like Chord Hold, Inversions, Transpose
• 3-slot stereo FX engine with 26 studio-grade effects
• MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support
• MODALapp integration for deep editing and preset management

Use Cases

The CARBON8M is a perfect solution for music producers, sound designers, and performers seeking a modern and versatile synthesis experience. Thanks to its advanced digital synthesis engine, extensive modulation system and MPE support, it fits genres ranging from electronic music to cinematic soundscapes.

Technical Specifications

• Polyphony: 8 voices (expandable to 16 via poly-chain)
• Oscillators: 2 independent digital oscillators per voice, each with 56 cores
• Waveforms: 18 digital algorithms and 38 advanced wavetables
• Oscillator Drift: Supported with extended implementation
• Oscillator Modifiers: Wave Shape, Wave Fold, Phase Distortion
• Filters: 34 types including morphable and static designs, vintage emulations and Modal originals
• Cutoff scaling: 2 modes
• Envelopes: 3 independent generators (AMP, MOD, FILTER), including invert modes for MOD and FILTER
• LFOs: 3 (2 polyphonic, 1 global), tempo sync, over 15 shapes
• Modulation: 8 assignable user slots + 4 fixed routings, 12 sources and 55 destinations
• Sequencer: 512-step real-time/step sequencer with 4 lanes of parameter animation
• Step Sequencer: 64 steps, 8 notes per step, animation per step, multiple playback/gate/rest modes
• Arpeggiator: 32 steps, up to 2048 steps before repeat, with chord functions
• Effects: 3-slot stereo FX engine with 26 algorithms including Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Tremolo, Drive
• Memory: 500 presets (300 factory), 100 FX presets, 100 sequencer presets, 8 Quick Recall slots
• Controls: 13 switched encoders, 13 encoders, 9 buttons, assignable X/Y joystick with lock option
• Voice Modes: Mono, Poly, Unison 2/4/8, Stack 2/4
• Performance: Glide/Portamento (legato and staccato), Chord Invert
• Display: 1.54" OLED
• Audio I/O: 6.35 mm TS dual-mono out, 6.35 mm TRS headphone out, 3.5 mm TRS stereo audio in
• MIDI/Sync: DIN MIDI In/Out, 3.5 mm TS Sync In/Out, USB-MIDI (class compliant)
• Pedal Inputs: 6.35 mm TRS expression and TS sustain inputs
• Power Supply: DC 9V 1.5A center-positive (external power supply included)
• Enclosure: Metal desktop format, 19” rack mountable (brackets included)
• Dimensions: 384 x 127 x 81 mm
• Weight: 2.1 kg
• Software: MODALapp for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and VST3/AU plugin

Materials and Construction

The CARBON8M features a robust steel and aluminum chassis for stage and studio durability. It fits perfectly on a desktop and can be rack-mounted using the included 19” brackets.

Included in the Box

• CARBON8M Synth Module
• External Power Supply
• Rackmount Brackets

Conclusion

Modal Electronics CARBON8M is a next-generation digital synth module designed for musicians, sound designers, and producers. With its powerful synthesis engine, rich modulation, and MPE integration, it opens up vast new sound design possibilities.