Buchla Easel-K (2015)
An analog desktop synthesizer combining the 208 Sound Source with the 223e Kinesthetic Input Port for expressive touch control
Overview
The Buchla Easel-K is a 2-voice analog synthesizer released in 2015 as an updated configuration of the reissued 1973 Buchla Music Easel. Unlike the original’s capacitive touch keyboard, the Easel-K replaces the 218 module with the 223e Multi-Dimensional Kinesthetic Input Port, introducing a 27-keypad tactile surface that senses velocity, pressure, and positional movement across 14 keypads. It functions as a semi-modular desktop system with banana jacks for CV and 1/8-inch jacks for audio, supporting external control via MIDI, USB, or 1V/octave CV. The system includes two oscillators, a 24dB 4-pole filter with resonance, an ASD envelope with looping capability, and a built-in spring reverb.
Specifications
| Engine Type | Analog |
| Voices (max) | 2 |
| Oscillators | 2 |
| LFO | 1 |
| Sample & Hold | Triangle |
| Engine Detailed | 2 VCO Pulse, Pulse Variable, Square, Triangle |
| Filter (VCF) | 1 24dB Slope (4-pole), Resonance |
| Envelope (VCA) | 1 Attack, Decay, Looping, Triggered |
| Sequencer Step Keys | 30 |
| Key type | Touch pads (via 223e module) |
| Velocity | Y |
| Aftertouch | Y |
| CV-gate | CV/GATE |
| Produced | 2015 |
| External audio input | 1/8-inch jack |
| Patching | Banana jacks for CV, 1/8-inch jacks for audio |
| Connectivity | MIDI keyboard, USB keyboard, and traditional 1V/octave CV signals can be interfaced |
| Core Components | Combination of the 208 Stored Program Sound Source and the Buchla 223e Kinesthetic Input Port module |
Design
The Easel-K integrates the 208 Stored Program Sound Source with the 223e Multi-Dimensional Kinesthetic Input Port, replacing the original 218 Touch Activated Voltage Source. The 223e features a 3-panel tactile surface with 27 velocity- and pressure-sensitive keypads, 14 of which detect positional movement in one or two dimensions, with pressure sensitivity ranging from light touch to several pounds. The surface can be mounted in a 200e-series cabinet or a 201e-3 Passive Frame. Control data—including location, pressure, impact, and tuned voltages—are output across 30 points on the Tactile Input Port module. The system includes a five-step sequencer, Pulser, ASD envelope, and a random module accessed via patch point. The Filter/Gate uses vactrols, and the unit includes built-in spring reverb. All settings, including keypad programming, can be saved and recalled using the Preset Manager on a 225e or 206e module. The arpeggiator supports multiple patterns, internal/external clocks, and various control features.
Context
The original Buchla Music Easel, released in 1973, was one of the earliest portable analog synthesizers, known for its semi-modular design and capacitive touch keyboard. It represented the West Coast synthesis approach, contrasting with Moog’s East Coast topology. The Easel-K modernizes this legacy by enhancing external connectivity and replacing the touch keyboard with the expressive 223e interface, addressing the original’s limited integration with external gear. All Easel models are based on the 208 Stored Program Sound Source.
Reception & Use
Users describe the Easel-K as having a life of its own, with a depth that exceeds its minimal appearance. Its dynamics are praised, and players note they don’t miss traditional ADSR or East Coast filter designs. Despite its simplicity, the instrument surprises new users with the complexity of its sound.
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