Arturia MatrixBrute

I have to admit that I was pretty new to synthesizers when I took the rather spontaneous decision to get a MatrixBrute. That is why I didn't want to review it until now - one year later.
The synth is loaded with functionality and I would highly recommend you checking out the videos that Marc Doty did on youtube - it is a series of videos describing each element and also giving useful hints and ideas on using the instrument.
The sound is amazing, the VCOs are very stable - don't get out of tune even after a few hours. They need some time - about 15 minutes to warm up though so - don't plan on playing it immediately after starting it - give it some time to warm up. This however is mentioned in the booklet.
The booklet with instructions is lacking details but...when you buy this thing you are supposed to know enough about synthesis already (not like me).
The matrix is very functional and is really amazing for playing live - if you have a plan of the structure of the song/piece you play it can do miracles.
One thing I don't really like is the keyboard - it is slightly smaller than a normal fullsized keyboard - for example the one you get on the rev2, moog, novation bass station and the IK Multimedia Midi keyboards - these are the ones I use/have used that feel better because they are full sized and also just because of the way they feel. Yet, the keys feel better than the mini and monologue to me and if you get used to them - they can be fast and easy to play. There might be some issues with the aftertouch - it didn't work on mine in the beginning but then somehow it started working - it was deifinitely a routing issue and a short research on the internet will show you that there really is some issue with it.
As far as the effects go, I love the stereo delay - everything else, yeah...sounds a little bit cheap especially the reverb, but I don't use the reverb anyway. Flanger is cool.

When I decided upon an analogue hardware synth for my studio rig, the features and flexibility of the Arturia MatrixBrute blew the competitors straight out of the water. It is a sturdy, big instrument with a quality built that will last for years of intensive use without any foreseeable issues. The central matrix is a hybrid delight, enabling you to store your patches, route your vast modulation options, compose your sequences, all with an ease that promotes the workflow. Upload and download patches to and from Arturia's MIDI Control Center, and you are off to build your own library of sounds.
Not the most punchy paraphonic monosynth on the planet, but its three VCO's still deliver tremendous dynamics and color, while the Steiner-Parker and ladder filters can be driven hard if needed, especially with the Brute Factor knob at play. Three LFO's with plenty of modulation options, three envelopes, one hard-wired to VCF and another to VCA, user-defineable macro knobs, bucket-brigade analogue effects, arpeggiator, different voice and play modes, audio input to process your external signal...this machine is so complete that you will need time and dedication to fully appreciate its possibilities. Connectivity with the modular world is also fully covered, although I haven't gone there yet. Weaker points? Since it is digitally controlled analogue, the knob positions do not correspond when loading a stored patch. only when manipulating them they "jump" to the corresponding setting. This requires a bit of handiness and experience. there is a multitude of instructive videos on the web, and the manual will get you going initially. It has been quite an investment, but one that has proven worth it...this ain't no toy.

Arturia MatrixBrute is one of those synths you need to try yourself in the studio to fully realise the potential of the instrument which in a way is limitless. It's very solid synth with amazing design and sound but unfortunately I can't say the same when it comes to its effects section. All the effects sound very cheap and pure as for my taste and sometimes they even tend to spoil the initial sound you've got. It's of course not that big problem if you like using external effects but for musicians who like to have all-in instrument it might be an issue. Nevertheless for its price I think it's one of the best synths on the market right now.