LYRA-8 is based on eight generators, which are called voices. Their design is not like a traditional subtractive synthesis VCO. Instead of having a linear or logarithmic dependency on control voltage, they resemble the tone generators in old electric organs. Hence the use of the term “voices” instead of “VCOs.” Lyra uses non-linearity extensively, and the voices are constructed to allow non-linearity to express itself.

The voices are divided into four pairs (12, 34, 56, 78). All pairs are grouped into two sets, with two pairs in each (1234, 5678), creating a tree-like structure.

The voices can function either in electric organ mode or in FM synthesis mode, with each voice and its envelope acting as a separate FM operator. The voice’s influence on FM synthesis decreases as its envelope decays.

LYRA-8 also includes the following modules:

The HYPER LFO is a complex low-frequency oscillator whose waveform is synthesized from two simple LFOs by summing or multiplying their frequencies. It also features a sync mode. The LFO can modulate selected pairs of voices and the MOD DELAY.

The MOD DELAY consists of two delay lines with cross-feedback and a special architecture that enables resonance between the two lines. Each line’s delay time can be individually modulated from various sources, including external ones. The delay has a unique self-modulation capability where the output signal modulates the delay sample rate, creating interesting effects.

The DISTORTION is last in the chain, after the delay. It allows the delay to also affect the distortion.

Despite its experimental nature, LYRA is a professional instrument. Its output dynamics and frequency response are balanced and ready for live performance or studio recording without additional processing.

More information about SOMA Lyra-8 can be found here: SOMA Lyra-8

* Please note that all colors, except Black and White, are classified as special order items. *