Dave Smith Instruments is a synthesizer brand that focuses on creating analog and digital synthesizers known for their high-quality sound and versatility. The brand was founded in 2002 by Dave Smith, a pioneer in the synthesizer industry.
Founded by Dave Smith in 2002
Formerly known as Sequential Circuits
Released its first product, the Evolver synthesizer, in 2002
Acquired by Yamaha Corporation in 2015
Moog Music is a synthesizer manufacturer known for its high-quality analog synthesizers. The brand was founded in 1953 by Robert Moog and has been a major player in the industry ever since.
Korg is a Japanese company that produces a wide range of electronic musical instruments, including synthesizers, digital pianos, and keyboard workstations. The brand is known for its high-quality instruments and innovative designs.
Roland is a Japanese brand that produces a wide range of electronic musical instruments, including synthesizers and digital pianos. The brand is known for its innovative designs and high-quality sound.
The Prophet-6 is a six-voice analog synthesizer that combines vintage sound with modern versatility. The synthesizer offers two discrete VCOs plus sub-oscillators per voice, a resonant low-pass filter, and a range of modulation options.
The OB-6 is a six-voice analog synthesizer that was co-designed by Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim. The synthesizer offers a range of filter options, including a state-variable filter inspired by the Oberheim SEM, and a range of modulation options.
The Pro 2 is a mono/paraphonic synthesizer that combines analog and digital sound sources. The synthesizer offers four oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and a range of modulation options, including a sequencer and an arpeggiator.
Dave Smith is a synthesizer designer and founder of Dave Smith Instruments. He is a pioneer in the synthesizer industry and has been responsible for creating some of the most iconic synthesizers of all time, including the Prophet-5.
Analog synthesizers use analog circuits to create sound, while digital synthesizers use digital processing to create sound. Analog synthesizers tend to have a warmer, more organic sound, while digital synthesizers tend to be more versatile and offer more sound-shaping options.
The Prophet-5 is a vintage analog synthesizer that was first released in 1978. It was the first fully programmable polyphonic synthesizer and has become a cult classic among musicians and synthesizer enthusiasts.
The Prophet-6 is a reimagining of the classic Prophet-5 synthesizer, with modern features and updated technology. Some of the key differences include a new filter design, improved modulation options, and the ability to save presets.
The price range of Dave Smith Instruments synthesizers varies depending on the model, but they tend to be on the high end of the market. The Prophet-6, for example, retails for around $3,000, while the Pro 2 retails for around $2,000.