THE MYSTIC Semi-Modular FM Desktop Synth
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The Mystic · Source: Recovery Effects
The Mystic · Source: Recovery Effects
The Mystic · Source: Recovery Effects
The Mystic is a new device from Recovery Effects, who are known for their quirky, yet interesting approach to sound generation and effects. So what does The Mystic, a new desktop semi-modular synth, bring to the table?
The Mystic Explained
The Mystic is a two operator FM synth that features two carriers, two modulators and a delay function. FM synthesis typically relies on the principle of one waveform (the carrier) being connected to the audio output and being modulated by another waveform (the modulator) to generate a complex waveform full of harmonics. The Mystic has two of each of these and all can be controlled on the instrument itself or by CV from another source. But don’t expect traditional 1 v/oct pitch results. What you will get is a combination of pitch, texture and tone.
All of this is passed through a built in delay. It’s actually an analog style echo with 500ms of delay time and this can also be controlled onboard or via incoming CV.
The Mystic · Source: Recovery Effects
How Does The Mystic Sound?
Recovery Effects state that The Mystic, “makes ethereal voices swirl, echo, ascend, and plunge into an ever-changing, sonic, celestial playground. Generate colossal waves that ripple through the cosmos and make galaxies collide.” Fancy words but can it actually deliver? Watching and listening to the demo video’s, the answer is a resounding yes! If you are looking for wild and crazy drones then The Mystic ticks that box. It looks incredibly easy to get some interesting stuff out of it. Connect it to your other modular gear to will further expand its sonic capability.
The Mystic · Source: Recovery Effects
Is It For Me?
That all depends, I guess? FM is superb for quickly getting off-kilter, inharmonic tones. If you are looking for instant, quirky drones then The Mystic is absolutely your cup of tea. Don’t expect this to be a tonal FM synth. That’s not the point and you will come away disappointed. Because The Mystic is designed to be fed through other units, such as effects, the output is line level so if you intend on feeding it into Eurorack you will need to convert it. Recovery recommend the Strymon AA.1.
More Information
The Mystic is available direct from Recovery for $279 without a power adapter, or $294 with one. Power supplies are of the ‘Boss’ variety, i.e. 9V DC 200 mA negative tip.
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One response to “THE MYSTIC Semi-Modular FM Desktop Synth”
So again, a 3-stack of PCBs being misused as a “case”, w/ no protection on sides nor between layers?