Scrooge by Neutral Labs: A Synthesizer for the Creative Destruction of Analog Sounds
Analog, Experimental and Absolutely One-of-a-kind
4,9 / 5,0 | 
Scrooge by Neutral Labs: a synthesizer for the creative destruction of analog sounds · Source: Neutral Labs
Scrooge by Neutral Labs is a unique semi-modular synthesizer that completely reinterprets the classic sound and relies on deliberate, creative irregularities. Developed by the German company Neutral Labs, known for the Elmyra 2 synthesizer, Scrooge takes an experimental approach: its voices generate sounds without electricity, drawing energy from sequencer control signals. This gives it an unstable, glitchy character that ranges from deep, percussive kicks to metallic, cracking hi-hats – perfect for electronic music and experimental soundscapes.
Neutral Labs Shows how to get Sound Design Right With Scrooge
Available as a 42U Eurorack module as well as a desktop version, the synthesizer features five analog voices, each with its own volume control and two additional parameters. The voices are based on CMOS components specially selected for their sonic characteristics. The passive design of the synthesizer distinguishes Scrooge from conventional analog synthesizers, as it requires no power supply and is powered only by external sequencing. Wow! A particularly interesting feature is the A&B switch, which allows the sounds to be routed to different outputs for further processing.
Scrooge’s sequencer offers a wealth of possibilities with five voice and two modulation tracks, up to 64 steps and a chaining function for up to 32 patterns (a kind of song mode). It includes an algorithmic generator that randomly modifies or regenerates patterns and can be used directly in live mode. There are also parameter locks per step, micro-timing, and other features for flexible, dynamic sound design. Sounds like a lot of fun!
Industrial Sounds and Glitch Aesthetics Combined in one Synth
Integration into modular systems is made easy thanks to extensive CV and audio inputs, poke inputs for (audio) triggering of voices, as well as MIDI and sync connections. For lovers of unconventional sounds, Scrooge is sure to be an inspiring sound generator that can sound both unusual and industrial. With a price of about 389.00 Euro (desktop) or 339.00 Euro (Eurorack) for the DIY kit and about 636.00 Euro for the assembled version, the synth is more than affordable (here at Exploding Shed).
With the Scrooge, Neutral Labs offers a fresh alternative to the usual synths that could polarize: for some it produces unpredictable sounds, for others it is a creative tool for experimental music and sound design. Finally, another innovative and interesting synthesizer in the world of sounds.
Learn More About the Neutral Labs Synthesizer
This might also interest you
