Alesis Andromeda A6 (2000–2010)
16-voice, 16-part multi-timbral analog synthesizer with dual filters per voice and extensive physical control.
Overview
The Alesis Andromeda A6 is a 16-voice, 16-part multi-timbral polyphonic analog synthesizer introduced in 2000 at the Winter NAMM show. Conceived as a flagship product to re-establish Alesis in the professional synth market, it combines a pure analog audio signal path with digital control technologies. Designed by Axel Hartmann, it was one of the most complex and ambitious analog synths ever made. The voice architecture is based on Curtis CEM3396 chips, with each voice containing two oscillators, a noise generator, a mixer, a multimode filter, three VCAs, and five envelope generators. It features a 61-note semi-weighted keyboard with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity, plus pitch and modulation wheels and a ribbon controller.
Specifications
| Production Years | 2000–2010 |
| Polyphony | 16 voices |
| Timbrality | 16-part multi-timbral |
| Oscillators | 2 VCOs per voice, each with a sub-oscillator |
| Oscillator Waveforms | Sine, triangle, pulse, up saw, down saw |
| Oscillator Features | Hard and soft sync, FM, ring modulation, white and pink noise |
| LFO | 3 dedicated LFOs plus Sample & Hold per voice |
| Synthesis Type | Analog Subtractive |
| Filters | Two per voice: 4-pole 24dB/octave Moog-style low-pass and 2-pole 12dB/octave SEM-style multimode (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, notch), routable in series or parallel |
| Envelopes | 5 per voice (3 dedicated, 2 assignable) |
| Modulation Matrix | 16 slots with 47 sources and 98 destinations |
| Effects | Analog distortion; digital effects including reverb, delay, chorus, flanger, phaser, pitch-shifting |
| Arpeggiator | Up, Down, Up/Down, Random with MIDI sync |
| Sequencer | 16-track, 192 ppq resolution, up to 20,000 notes memory |
| Keyboard | 61-note semi-weighted, velocity and aftertouch sensitive |
| Controllers | Pitch wheel, modulation wheel, ribbon controller |
| Interface | 72 knobs, 144 buttons |
| Display | 240 x 64 pixel backlit LCD |
| Program Memory | 256 preset, 128 user programs, 256 setups, 16 songs |
| Memory Card Slot | PCMCIA-format |
| External Control | MIDI In, Out, Thru (16-part multitimbral); CV/Gate In |
| Audio Outputs | 2 main (L/R), 4 individual, plus dedicated output per voice |
| Audio Inputs | 2 external inputs |
| Headphone Output | 1 x 1/4" (6.35mm) jack |
| Footswitch Inputs | 2 assignable (supports sustain, expression, foot controllers) |
| Power Supply | Built-in internal (BA02 Power Supply) |
| Voltage | 100–230(250)V, 50–60Hz |
| Power Consumption | 30 W |
| Dimensions | 40.1" x 4.8" x 16.1" (1019 mm x 122 mm x 409 mm) |
| Weight | 21 kg (47 lb) |
| Case/Body | Metal and plastic, silver color |
Design
The Andromeda A6 uses custom ASIC chips for its oscillators and filters, with the two filters per voice modeled after a 12dB/octave Oberheim SEM multi-mode filter and a 24dB/octave Moog 904 low-pass filter. The VCOs include pitch correction to improve tuning stability. The synth contains multiple circuit boards: Front Panel Left (with microprocessor), Main, Digital Main (with ADC), and Analog Master. It uses a Fatar keybed and features output mute circuitry for its four analog outputs (Main and Aux). The user interface combines 72 knobs and 144 buttons with a deep menu system, and the LCD includes contrast adjustment. Memory is backed by a CR2032 3V lithium battery.
Context
The Andromeda A6 was introduced in 2000 as Alesis’ flagship synthesizer to re-enter the professional synth market. It was positioned as a high-end model among Alesis’ more budget-oriented gear. Alesis was acquired by inMusic Brands (Numark) in 2001, during the Andromeda’s production run. The synth was recognized as one of the great analog synth designs of all time, praised for its rich, organic, and powerful analog sound and deep programming capabilities. It was used by artists including BT, Air, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails, and Klaus Schulze.
Market
The Andromeda A6 was discontinued in 2010. Known issues include tuning instability—often linked to the CEM3396 chips or power supply—and occasional dead voices. Repairs can be complex due to custom ASICs and dense internal construction. Build quality is generally good, with a solid metal chassis, though some plastic components are considered less robust. The original price was US$3,000.
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