Details
1. Why are stock levels low or empty?
We build our modules in low volumes, typically in batches of 10x. They are hand built and tested in the UK and take time to complete. We add as many modules each week to the web store stock but the customer demand is high, so please be patient. You can request an email alert of products coming into stock on the product page.
2. Why are AMSynths "High Quality"?
We use modern high tolerance components that sound great to our ears, and we redesign and change things until they are perfect. That means using Linear Systems matched transistor pairs, WIMA and Panasonic audio grade capacitors and polypropylene capacitors in filters.
The panels are hard wearing and are machined out of 2mm aluminium, colour printed and baked in at 190 centigrade. PCB's are professional manufactured in a large fabrication factory in China, and cleaned ultrasonically after assembly. An AMSynths module will last a lifetime, and we will always service them...
3. Are your modules protected from electrical damage?
Yes all modules (except the AM8109 V1) are protected from reverse voltages and short circuits on the PCB, using Polyfuses and rectifier diodes. Power supply cabling is keyed but we know its possible to make mistakes plugging modules in - as we have done it too!
4. Do you offer kits?
We don't offer full kits or populated PCB's, but we do sell PCB's and selected components kits.
5. What inspires AMSynths?
We take inspiration from the analog pioneers of the 1970's; E-mu Systems for their quality, ARP and PPG for their pioneering approach and Roland for mass production, and all 3 for aesthetics. AMSynths have focused on slider based modules which is inspired by Roland and ARP, we think it makes synthesizers more visually controllable. We have the potentiometers specially manufactured in China to our designs.
6. Why the name AMSynths?
In 2002 I originally set up manufacturing PCB's under the name Analog Metropolis, as I intended creating a city of analog modules. Metropolis also gave the name a 1930's retro feel. AMSynths is simply a shortened version of Analog Metropolis Synthesizers, and there will indeed be many modules launched over the next few years!
7. Why did you work with Behringer?
In 2019/20 I colloborated with Behringer to co-develop the 2500 modules and 2600 synthesizer, which have been a fantastic success and I really enjoyed the experience. My objective was to make these designs sound fantastic - which is what we achieved. Whilst open to doing this again I prefer the hand crafted approach rather than mass production.