The Arturia PolyBrute represents a significant leap forward in the company's "Brute" synthesizer lineage, marking their entry into the realm of high-end polyphonic analog synthesizers. After more than three years of development, this six-voice powerhouse combines the aggressive character of the Brute series with unprecedented depth and flexibility.

The PolyBrute is built around a dual-sound architecture where each patch contains two largely independent sounds (A and B) that can be morphed between, layered, or split across the keyboard. This morphing capability extends to almost every parameter, creating virtually limitless sound design possibilities. The instrument offers three timbral modes: Single (mono-timbral), Split (different sounds for upper and lower keyboard zones), and Layer (two sounds played simultaneously).

At its heart, the PolyBrute features two analog VCOs per voice with powerful waveform sculpting capabilities including the signature Metalizer wave-folding, variable pulse width modulation, and soft-to-hard oscillator sync. The dual filter architecture combines a 12dB/oct Steiner multimode filter with the classic Brute Factor feedback, and a 24dB/oct ladder filter with distortion, which can be used in series, parallel, or any blend between.

The modulation system is exceptionally comprehensive, featuring three LFOs and three envelope generators per voice, along with a 64-slot modulation matrix that provides unprecedented routing flexibility. Performance controls include the innovative Morphée 3D touch controller, a ribbon controller cleverly integrated into the wooden strip behind the keyboard, and traditional pitch/mod wheels.

The instrument includes a polyphonic sequencer capable of recording up to 64 steps with six-note polyphony, three modulation tracks, and various playback modes. An integrated arpeggiator offers up to 32 notes with multiple playback patterns, and a unique Matrix Arpeggiator mode allows for complex pattern construction using the modulation matrix buttons.

Built into a substantial 20kg chassis with a 61-note velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keyboard, the PolyBrute delivers both the aggressive character expected from the Brute lineage and the sophisticated control capabilities demanded by modern sound designers and performers.

Technical Specifications

Voice Architecture

• Polyphony: 6 voices
• Voice Modes: Polyphonic, Unison, Mono
• Timbrality: Bi-timbral (sounds A and B per patch)
• Keyboard Modes: Single, Split, Layer
• Voice Allocation: Dynamically assigned, voice cycling options, selectable mono/unison note priorities

Oscillators (per voice)

• VCO1:
  • Sawtooth wave
  • Triangle wave with Metalizer (wave-folding)
  • Variable pulse wave with PWM
  • Metalizer can be applied to all waveforms
  • Always quantized to semitones
• VCO2:
  • Sawtooth wave
  • Triangle wave
  • Variable pulse wave with PWM
  • Sub-oscillator (one octave below, sine wave only)
  • Two fine-tuning ranges and two chromatic ranges
• Sync: Soft to hard oscillator sync (VCO2 to VCO1)
• FM: 2-operator FM synthesis (VCO2 as modulator)
• Tuning Modulation: Major, minor, Phrygian and other scale modes, portamento, glissando

Filters (per voice)

• VCF1 (Steiner):
  • 12dB/oct slope
  • Multimode: Low-pass, Band-pass, Notch, High-pass (continuous sweep)
  • Resonance control
  • Brute Factor (filter feedback)
  • Bipolar contour amount
  • Output level control
• VCF2 (Ladder):
  • 24dB/oct low-pass
  • Resonance with bass retention
  • Overdrive
  • Output level control
• Filter Routing: Series, parallel, or any blend between
• Master Cutoff: Global control for both filters
• Key Tracking: Available for both filters
• Filter FM: VCO2 → VCF1, Noise → VCF2

Mixer Section

• Inputs: VCO1, VCO2, Noise
• Noise: Variable color (red to white)
• Routing: Each source can be directed to one or both filters

Voice Panning

• Voice Pan Modes:
  • Distrib Centered
  • Distrib Gradual
  • Voice+Filter panning
• Stereo Width: Adjustable via Stereo knob
• Modulation: All panning parameters can be modulated

Modulation System

Envelopes (per voice)

• VCF ENV: ADSR, velocity-sensitive, hard-wired to filter cutoff, available in matrix
• VCA ENV: ADSR, hard-wired to amplifiers, not available in matrix
• MOD ENV: 5-stage DADSR, matrix-only access
• Envelope Features:
  • Looping capability (2x, 3x, or infinite)
  • Velocity response modes: Natural, Shorten, Extend
  • Quick and percussive curve modes

LFOs (per voice)

• LFO1:
  • 7 waveforms
  • Rate: 0.02Hz to 100Hz
  • Sync to arpeggiator/sequencer/clock
  • Phase control
  • Trigger modes: Mono, Poly, Poly-retrig
  • Unipolar/bipolar operation
• LFO2:
  • Similar to LFO1
  • Fade-in parameter instead of phase
  • Independent retriggering and sync ratios
• LFO3:
  • Shapeable triangle wave
  • Curve parameter (waveform bending)
  • Symmetry parameter (sawtooth ↔ triangle ↔ ramp)
  • Single-cycle mode (functions as shaped AD envelope)
  • Cross-modulation with LFO1

Modulation Matrix

• Size: 64 slots
• Sources: 16 predefined sources (some rows have dual inputs)
• Destinations: 32 assignable destinations across 4 pages
• Features:
  • Multiple sources to single destination
  • Single source to multiple destinations
  • Independent polarities and amounts
  • Self-modulation capability
  • Modulation of modulation amounts

Morphing System

• Morph Knob: Continuously blends between sounds A and B
• Morphable Parameters: Almost all synthesis parameters
• Morph Position: Stored as patch parameter
• Matrix Integration: Morph position available as modulation destination
• Management: Import, copy, swap functions for A/B sounds

Performance Controls

Keyboard

• Keys: 61-note, 5-octave
• Velocity: Sensitive with selectable response curves
• Aftertouch: Channel aftertouch (pressure sensitivity)
• Octave Shift: ±2 octaves from center

Morphée Controller

• Type: 3D pressure-sensitive touchpad
• Axes: X, Y, Z control
• Response Modes: Tap, Hold, Scan, Hold Scan
• Routing: Matrix destination or arpeggiator/sequencer control
• Per-patch: Response mode saved per patch

Ribbon Controller

• Location: Integrated into wooden strip behind keyboard
• Modes: Absolute, Absolute/Hold, Relative, Relative/Hold
• Routing: Any matrix destination

Wheels

• Pitch Bend: Traditional pitch wheel
• Modulation Wheel:
  • Four destinations: Matrix, Master Cutoff, LFO1 amplifier, Vibrato
  • Vibrato: Dedicated sine wave LFO (3.4Hz, 5.6Hz, 10Hz options)

Sequencer/Arpeggiator

Polyphonic Sequencer

• Steps: Up to 64 steps (any length possible)
• Polyphony: Up to 6 notes per step
• Recording: Real-time with metronome, overdub capability
• Modulation Tracks: Up to 3 tracks for knob/slider movements
• Step Editing: Note entry, velocity, duration, accent, slide, tie
• Playback Modes: Forward, Pendulum, Random, Walk (aleatoric)
• Features: Copy/paste, transpose, note stealing considerations

Arpeggiator

• Pattern Length: Up to 32 notes
• Octave Range: 1-4 octaves
• Playback Modes: 6 conventional + 1 quasi-random
• Tempo: 30-240 BPM
• Features: Clock ratio, gate length, swing, hold, tap tempo
• Conversion: Arpeggios can be converted to sequences

Matrix Arpeggiator

• Concept: Hybrid arpeggiator/sequencer using matrix buttons
• Step Control: Matrix buttons determine notes, octaves, slides, accents
• Modulation: 3 modulation tracks
• Approach Notes: Semitone shifts for musical transitions

Motion Recording

• Capability: Record movement of single control
• Playback Speed: 12.5% to 800% of recorded speed
• Modes: One-shot or looped playback
• Scope: Per-voice rather than per-patch
• Matrix Integration: Record Morphée in Matrix mode for 32-parameter control

Digital Effects

Routing Options

• Insert: Modulation → Delay → Reverb (series)
• Send: Modulation → (Delay + Reverb in parallel)
• Bypass: Pure analog signal path

Modulation Effects

• Panel Options: Chorus, Phasing
• Menu Options: 3 types of flanging, additional phasing, ring modulation, bit-crushing, down-sampling
• Control: Intensity parameter

Delay

• Types: 8 modes total (7 additional via menu)
• Controls: Level, Time (with sync), Regeneration
• Filtering: 8 high-pass and low-pass filter options

Reverb

• Types: 6 modes total (5 additional via menu)
• Controls: Level, Time, Damping
• Options: 4 menu variations

Memory and Patch Management

• Patch Memory: 768 locations (8 banks of 96)
• Patch Structure: Dual sounds A and B per patch
• Categories: Single category assignment per patch
• Quick Save: Overwrite current patch
• Snapshots: Up to 5 snapshots per editing session
• Preview: Patch location preview before saving
• Random Generator: Intelligent patch generation system

Connectivity

Audio Outputs

• Main Outputs: Stereo 1/4" unbalanced
• Headphones: Front-panel 1/4" with independent level control

Control Inputs

• Sustain Pedal: 1/4" input
• Expression Pedals: 2 × 1/4" inputs
  • EXP1: Master Cutoff, volume
  • EXP2: Ribbon, mod wheel, Morphée axes emulation, matrix injection

MIDI

• Connections: 5-pin DIN In/Out/Thru, USB Type B
• Channels: Individual channels for Upper/Lower zones
• Features: Local on/off, bank/program change, arp/seq MIDI output
• MIDI CC: Most panel controls mapped (non-standard assignments)
• Advanced: 2500 NRPNs and RPNs for editor communication

Clock/Sync

• Analog Clock: 3.5mm In/Out
• Clock Sources: USB, 5-pin MIDI, Analog Clock, Internal (auto-priority)
• Clock Modes: One Step, 2PPQN, 24PPQN (DIN Sync), 48PPQN

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 972 × 378 × 110 mm
• Weight: 20 kg
• Power: Internal universal PSU with IEC input
• Construction: Solid metal hardware with wooden accent strip

Software Integration

• PolyBrute Editor: Free download for registered owners
• Functionality: Bidirectional communication, standalone and plugin versions
• Features: Patch management, librarian, project organization
• DAW Integration: VST plugin for parameter automation
• Compatibility: Cross-platform support