In this article and series of videos for Production Expert, Brent March takes an in-depth look at the IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro Desktop and puts it through its paces, to truly see if you can get authentic analog sound at a great value price point?

IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro Desktop - Overview

Available in two versions, stage with metal housing and premium Fatar keybed and an ultra-portable, USB-powered with capacitive keyboard —UNO Synth Pro offers everyone the next generation of analog sound design in an intelligent format that fits any space or budget.

Key Features

• Authentic analog sound. 3 continuously variable waveshape oscillators with PWM, sync, FM and ring modulation

• Dual filter design: a new SSI filter plus the original UNO Synth filter for 24 possible modes, including serial and parallel routing

• Massive sonic flexibility: full ADSR envelopes + LFOs and modulation matrix

• Robust control: 256 User-editable presets, onboard arpeggiator and 64-step sequencer with automation

• Onboard effects: 12 studio-quality effects in 3 simultaneous slots: modulation, delay and reverb, plus true-analog overdrive

• Advanced connectivity: noiseless balanced outs; USB, MIDI and CV/Gate I/O; plus audio input to filters, effects or outputs

IK Multimedia UNO Synth Pro Desktop - Functionality In Depth

3 Analog Oscillators

UNO Synth Pro has 3 analog oscillators that offer variable waveshape, including pulse-width modulation. Each oscillator can be hard-synced for more harmonically complex tones, and oscillator FM (frequency modulation) lets you shape your sounds further.

There’s ring modulation for wobbly, sci-fi sounds and a white noise generator for a wide range of percussive sounds, FX and layering in your patches.

Dual Filters With 24 Modes

In addition to the original UNO Synth’s 2-pole OTA multimode filter, UNO Synth Pro adds a new 2/4-pole SSI LP filter with self-oscillation. The dual filters can be used in series or parallel, with an invertible phase, for a total of 24 possible filter combinations.

In short, the UNO Synth Pro can recreate the filter sound of the most famous classic synths and deliver fresh new options to the limits of your imagination.

Envelopes, Filters And Modulation Matrix

UNO Synth Pro has two full ADSR envelopes, one filter and one amplitude. Both are available to modulate everything from oscillator pitch and waveshape to LFO speed.

Two LFOs can create classic synth vibrato, wah and tremolo, and do more complex modulations, via the 16-slot modulation matrix for endless routing possibilities, and get a tactile feel with both internal and external control via MIDI.

Onboard Effects

IK are well versed in modelling analog studio effects and for UNO Synth Pro, they've packed warm and organic true-analog overdrive, plus 12 studio-quality effects in three simultaneous slots: modulation, delay and reverb. You can also route external signals through these effects, with pre-effects filtering for flexibility and sound shaping

Pros

• Incredibly rich analogue sound from such a deceptively small desktop synthesizer

• Small, compact and light – perfect for on-the-go music making

• Well thought out design, the ability to create your own patches is effortless and requires very little previous knowledge 

• Presets sound amazing

• On board effects are remarkable for this price point

Cons

• The key bed is quite tricky to play, if you can stretch to the 37 key version – do it!

• Although durable and rugged in the right places, the build quality does feel less so in others.

• You’ll find yourself doing a lot of menu diving, however the screen does make this a lot easier and faster

At this price point it’s very hard to grumble. Both UNO synth models put other higher priced synths on the market to shame. The functionality, versatility, quality and sound capabilities this synth stand out. Equally at home with a novice or seasoned sound designer. 

Available now for £399 (GBP). For further details, please head over to IK Multimedia’s website, where you can find a recommended dealers in your area.