Full Description
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Classic 8-bit sound with extra dimension
The AY3 MKII builds around two AY-3 sound chips, creating a dual-chip stereo design with three voices per side. This configuration preserves the unmistakable character of vintage home computer audio while adding extra depth through subtle timing offsets between each chip. The result is a naturally wider stereo image with gentle phase movement that gives patches more space.
Switch between six-voice polyphony for chords, six-voice unison with dedicated detune for thicker sounds, or built-in chord modes for instant harmonies, all while retaining the distinctive character that made the original chips so recognisable.
Turn classic song data into live performances
Rather than simply replaying existing material, the AY3 MKII transforms compatible AYMID files into an interactive performance source. Connect Ay_Emul and remix incoming song data as it plays, reshaping familiar melodies and patterns using the synth's controls. Alongside this, the onboard 16-step sequencer lets you programme gates, pitch, and noise directly from the front panel.
Four pitch modulation modes and four arpeggiator modes quickly introduce movement, while dual synchronised chip timing helps create animated stereo textures without requiring additional processing.
Shape every voice with precision
The AY3 MKII offers far more flexibility than traditional chip-based instruments while remaining faithful to the original sound. New Note Follow options allow noise and envelope generators to react only to played notes, making patches feel tighter and more expressive.
Envelope behaviour combines logarithmic and linear shaping across the available range, while noise and envelope parameters can be edited independently or linked across both sound chips. Multiple clock modes support Atari ST, ZX Spectrum Rev. B, and Legacy operation, allowing you to match the pitch behaviour of different classic systems with minimal setup.
Designed for immediate hands-on control
The 5x6 control matrix places the most important sound parameters directly beneath your fingers, making it easy to adjust pitch, volume, envelopes, sequencing, arpeggiator settings, and noise without lengthy menu navigation. Five quality potentiometers, an endless push encoder, and 40 white LEDs provide clear visual feedback while editing.
Improved voice allocation keeps performances consistent, while 64 preset locations across eight banks make it easy to organise sounds. Full MIDI CC implementation, TRS Type A MIDI input, sustain pedal support, dual 3.5 mm audio outputs, and flexible 8-15V AC or DC power complete a synthesizer that fits comfortably into both studio and live hardware setups.
Features
- 64 preset memory (8 banks x 8 presets)
- 5 pots and 1 endless encoder with push button
- 40 subtle white LEDs
- 16 step sequencer to sequence notes on/off, pitch and noise on/off
- 4 Pitch modulation modes (aka LFO)
- 4 arpeggiator modes
- Ultra fat 6 voice unison mode with detune knob
- 6 chords to split the voices
- 6 voice polyphonic mode
- Glide mode
- Stereo sound (3 voice per channel/chip)
- Intuitive 6x6 mode matrix to access and control full range of controls
- Control of all knobs other features via MIDI CC
- Black anodized brushed aluminium case
- MIDI channel section
Specifications
- Oscillators: 2
- Waveforms: Pulse, Saw Up, Square, White Noise
- Osc Modulation: Envelope, Knob, LFO, Portamento, Sequencer
- Oscillator Notes: Based on tow 8912 sound chips
- Envelopes: 1
- Envelope Parameters: Attack, Decay, Sustain, Looping, Triggered
- LFO: 1
- LFO Parameters: Sine
- Polyphony: 6
- Tuning: Atonal, Standard
- Modes: Mono
- Memory Bank: 64 Preset Memory
- Case: Brushed Aluminium
- Audio Output Connections: 1/8’’ Phone Jack, Mono Out
- Display Type: LED
- Controls: Buttons, Knobs, Switches
- Dimensions: 14 cm x 10 cm x 4.5 cm
- Product Code: 31-10004
