The IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro X may become a serious contender in the analog synth market aimed at experienced synthesists and those who just started to learn analog synthesis. This desktop instrument is focusing entirely on a comprehensive control interface that prioritizes hands-on sound sculpting and sequencing capabilities.
The Pro X features a bold, upfront design with a matte-finish panel that approaches a knob-per-function layout, making it immediately accessible to users familiar with conventional subtractive synthesis architecture. The instrument emphasizes its sequencer as central to its character, with generously-sized sequencer buttons taking priority over the miniature single-octave capacitive keyboard used primarily for programming and auditioning sounds.
At its core, the Pro X is built around three oscillators and dual filters, offering paraphonic, legato, and mono operation modes. The dual filtering system draws inspiration from classic instruments like the Korg MS-20, with Filter 1 being OTA-based and Filter 2 utilizing SSI chip technology. These filters can operate in various configurations including parallel, series, linked modes, with options for low-pass, high-pass, 2-pole, and 4-pole operation.
A standout feature is the instrument's deep modulation capabilities, centered around a flexible modulation matrix that allows for extensive real-time parameter control and automation. The sequencer supports up to 64-step sequences with real-time recording, step programming, and parameter locking for detailed automation across entire sequences.
The Pro X includes a special "Bassline" mode that transforms the instrument's character for acid house and TB-303-style bass synthesis, reducing the upper frequency limit and enabling accent features for sequence programming.
Technical Specifications
Synthesis Engine
- Architecture: Digitally controlled analog synthesis
- Polyphony: 3-voice paraphony (with legato and mono modes)
- Oscillators: 3 wave-morphing analog oscillators
- Wave morphing: Triangle → Saw → Square → Pulse
- Individual tuning and level controls
- FM synthesis capability
- Oscillator sync and pulse-width modulation
- Ring modulation
- Noise generation
Filters
- Filter 1: OTA-based multimode analog filter
- Low-pass and high-pass modes
- Cutoff, resonance, and envelope amount controls
- Filter 2: SSI chip-based analog filter
- Low-pass mode with self-oscillation
- 2-pole and 4-pole slope options
- Independent cutoff, resonance, and envelope amount controls
- Filter Routing: Serial or parallel configuration with phase inverting
- Filter Linking: Option to control both filters from Filter 1's controls
Envelopes & Modulation
- Envelopes: 3 full ADSR envelope generators
- Primary envelope: Switchable between amplitude and filter control
- Third envelope: Assignable to multiple destinations
- Looping option available for all envelopes
- LFOs: 2 LFOs with single control set
- Freeform or clock-synced frequencies
- Fade-in capability (up to 10 seconds maximum)
- Modulation Matrix: 16-slot flexible routing system
- Source, Destination, Amount controls
- Real-time parameter recording
- Step-by-step parameter locking
Sequencer
- Steps: Up to 64 steps per sequence
- Programming: Step-by-step input, real-time recording
- Parameter Recording: All parameters editable and recordable for each step
- Arpeggiator: 10-mode arpeggiator with sequence import
- Preset Management: Independent loading of sounds, sequences, or both
- Recording Metronome: Built-in metronome for real-time recording
Effects Processing
- Drive: Analog drive circuit
- FX Slots: 3 FX slots with multiple options
- Reverb: 3 reverb types (Hall, Plate, Shimmer)
- Delay: 5 delay types (Mono, Stereo, Doubler, Ping-pong, LCR)
- Modulation: 2 modulation effects (Chorus, Uni-vibe)
Special Features
- Bassline Mode: TB-303-inspired mode
- Reduced upper frequency limit (20kHz → 5kHz)
- Attack/decay-only envelope operation
- Accent feature for sequence emphasis
- Voice Modes: Paraphonic, Legato, Mono
- Wave Morphing: Continuous morphing between waveforms
Interface & Controls
- Display: Small OLED screen
- Keyboard: Single-octave capacitive touch keyboard
- Control Layout: Near knob-per-function design
- Preset Storage: 256 user-editable presets with naming capability
- Master Controls: Tempo adjustment, arpeggiator toggle, preset management
Connectivity
- Audio Outputs: 2x 1/4-inch (6.3mm) TRS balanced stereo outputs
- Headphone Output: 3.5mm TRS stereo headphone jack
- Audio Input: 3.5mm TS mono input (for filters and FX processing, daisy-chain capable)
- MIDI:
- MIDI In: Standard 5-pin DIN
- MIDI Out: Standard 5-pin DIN (Soft THRU available in system menu)
- CV/Gate:
- CV/Gate In: 2x 3.5mm jacks (5V MAX, programmable)
- CV/Gate Out: 2x 3.5mm jacks (5V MAX, programmable)
- USB: USB-C connectivity (bus-powered capable)
- Power: External power supply input
Software Integration
- Editor: Brand new digital editor software
- Plugin Format: Available as software plugin
- Preset Transfer: Hardware/software preset synchronization
- Real-time Control: Automated parameter display and control
- Librarian: Preset management and storage system
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 333 x 150 x 50 mm (33.3 x 15 x 5 cm)
- Weight: 800 grams
- Panel Finish: Matte finish
- Build Quality: Professional-grade construction
Power Requirements
- Power Consumption: 1.5A @ 5V (7.5W maximum)
- Power Options: Bus-powered via USB-C or external power supply
Compatibility
- Power: Bus-powered via USB-C or external power supply
- DAW Integration: Universal compatibility (no specific DAW preference)
- Operating Systems: Cross-platform software support
- CV/Gate Automation: Full CV/Gate automation capabilities
