The Arturia PolyBrute 12 represents a flagship analog polyphonic synthesizer that pushes the boundaries of expressive keyboard performance. Building upon the foundation of the acclaimed original PolyBrute, this instrument delivers twice the polyphonic capability with groundbreaking performance features that bring it closer to acoustic instrument expressiveness than any other polysynth on the market.

Key Enhancements Over Original PolyBrute

Doubled Voice Architecture: The PolyBrute 12 features 12 voices compared to the original's 6, effectively doubling the maximum polyphony. This enhancement allows for more natural playing without the note-stealing concerns of the 6-voice predecessor, enabling complex chord progressions and layered performances with greater freedom.

Revolutionary FullTouch Technology: The most significant innovation lies in the newly developed keybed that tracks the precise position of each key throughout its entire travel range. This breakthrough enables three unique performance modes that represent genuine developments in keyboard performance technology:

• FullTouch AT Mode: Notes trigger at the very top of key travel, with velocity measured correctly while the remaining vertical travel determines polyphonic aftertouch values from zero to maximum.

• FullTouch AT > Z Mode: Extends the first mode by employing the traditional aftertouch sensor at the bottom of each key to generate the 'Z' modulator, typically controlled by the Morphée pad.

• FullTouch Env > AT Mode: Replaces traditional ADSR envelope generators with velocity and key-position-determined modulation values, incorporating both "Pluck" (fast AD transient) and "Touch" (position-based contour) signals.

Enhanced Polyphonic Aftertouch: Beyond traditional mono (channel) aftertouch, the PolyBrute 12 offers true polyphonic aftertouch, allowing individual note control within chords for techniques like adding vibrato to upper notes while keeping lower notes steady, or swelling individual chord tones.

MPE Compatibility: Full MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support enables seamless integration with MPE controllers like the Roli Seaboard, with sophisticated per-note parameter routing and voice allocation.

Physical Design & Construction

The PolyBrute 12's substantial construction reflects its professional capabilities. The enlarged case accommodates the additional voice circuitry while maintaining thermal stability through an intelligent passive cooling system. Strategic venting allows warm air to escape upward while drawing cooler air from below, eliminating the need for cooling fans and their associated noise.

The extended keybed design allows for longer keys with pivot points positioned further back, resulting in flatter key movement that closely mimics acoustic piano feel. This mechanical advantage significantly enhances playability for pianistically-trained musicians.

Sound Engine & Synthesis Architecture

The synthesis engine maintains the acclaimed flexibility and sonic character of the original PolyBrute while expanding its capabilities through increased polyphony. The synth supports various voice assignment modes including polyphonic and dynamically assigned unison modes, which become significantly more usable with 12 voices rather than 6.

The built-in sequencer now operates with full 12-voice polyphony, enabling complex sequence programming and real-time performance. Factory patches demonstrate the enhanced expressive capabilities, with special attention to sounds that showcase the FullTouch modes and polyphonic aftertouch features.

Software Integration

PolyBrute Connect: The free editor software provides comprehensive real-time two-way communication between hardware and software using complex NRPN and RPN systems. This enables the PolyBrute 12 to function as an external "hard" soft synth with full DAW automation capabilities. The updated patch browser aligns with Arturia's V Collection interface, providing familiar navigation for existing Arturia software users.

Performance Characteristics

The PolyBrute 12 excels in expressive performance scenarios where traditional keyboard techniques meet advanced synthesis control. The combination of polyphonic aftertouch, FullTouch modes, and MPE support creates unprecedented opportunities for real-time sound shaping and musical expression.

Learning to fully utilize the FullTouch modes requires dedication and practice, as techniques like holding specific notes at precise positions while manipulating others present genuine performance challenges. However, musicians who invest the time to master these capabilities will discover sound design and performance possibilities unavailable on any other instrument.

Technical Specifications

Synthesis Architecture

• Type: Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer
• Voices: 12 (doubled from original PolyBrute's 6)
• Voice Assignment: Polyphonic, Dynamically Assigned Unison modes
• Engine: Same flexible synthesis architecture as original PolyBrute

Keyboard & Performance Controls

• Keybed: Custom-designed with full key position tracking
• Key Length: Extended for improved pivot point positioning and flatter key travel
• Aftertouch Types:
  • Mono (Channel) Aftertouch
  • Polyphonic Aftertouch
  • FullTouch AT Mode
  • FullTouch AT > Z Mode
  • FullTouch Env > AT Mode
• Performance Controllers: Ribbon controller, Morphée pad
• Pitch Bend/Modulation: Dedicated wheels
• Control Pedal Inputs: 3 × 1/4" inputs

MIDI & Connectivity

• MIDI: 5-pin DIN In, Out, Thru
• USB: USB connectivity for MIDI and software integration
• MPE: Full MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support
• Sync: 3.5mm Sync In/Out
• MIDI CC Implementation: Various controller assignments (note: some non-standard implementations)

Audio Outputs

• Main Outputs: 1/4" unbalanced stereo
• Headphones: 1/4" stereo output (front panel)

Sequencer

• Polyphony: 12-voice polyphonic sequencing
• Enhanced capabilities with increased voice count

Memory & Presets

• Factory Patches: 400+ presets (inherited from original PolyBrute)
• FullTouch Demonstrations: Specialized patches showcasing new performance modes
• Memory Protection: Hardware switch for preset protection

Power Requirements

• Power Input: IEC mains input
• Consumption: Not specified (increased from original due to doubled voice count)

Performance Modes

• Pluck Signal: Fast attack transient (sub-4ms attack capability)
• Touch Signal: Key position-based contour generation
• Velocity Sensitivity: Full velocity response across all modes
• Expression Routing: Sophisticated per-note parameter control

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 972 × 435 × 156mm (38.3" × 17.1" × 6.1")
• Weight: 23kg (50.7 lbs)
• Construction: Enlarged case with passive cooling system
• Cooling: Passive ventilation (top/bottom vents, no fans required)
• Optional Accessories: Wooden legs (optional)

Software

• PolyBrute Connect: Free editor/librarian software
• Compatibility: Works with both original PolyBrute and PolyBrute 12
• Features: Real-time bidirectional communication, DAW plugin mode, comprehensive patch management
• Communication Protocol: Complex NRPN/RPN system for real-time control