Dreadbox Erebus (2014–2016)

A paraphonic semi-modular analog synthesizer handmade in Greece, known for its distinctive sound and patchable architecture.

Overview

The Dreadbox Erebus is a semi-modular analog synthesizer originally produced from 2014 to 2016. Handmade in Greece, it features a 2-voice paraphonic design with independent control of its two oscillators, allowing for rich, layered tones despite its compact size. Marketed as 100% analog (excluding MIDI), the Erebus includes a built-in lo-fi echo/delay effect with CV control, a 2-pole Dreadbox filter, ADSR and AR envelopes, and a wide-range LFO. It was reissued in 2022 as a faithful reproduction of the original v1 with minor improvements and better portability.

Specifications

Manufacturer	Dreadbox
Product type	Paraphonic semi-modular analogue synthesizer
Production years	2014–2016 (original version)
Country of origin	Greece
Circuit type	100% analog (except MIDI)
Voicing	2-Voice paraphonic
Oscillators	Two oscillators
Filter	2-Pole Dreadbox Filter
Envelope	ADSR Envelope and AR Amp Envelope
LFO	Wide-Range LFO
VCA	OTA VCA
Effects	Lo-Fi Echo/Delay Effect with CV control
Patching	Various patching options via patch panel
MIDI	MIDI channel selectable via DIP switch; supports MIDI CCs and NRPNs
Power	USB Powered
Format	42HP

Design

The Erebus uses a semi-modular analog architecture that is fundamentally monophonic but allows independent control of two oscillators, enabling paraphonic play. All signal paths are analog except for MIDI circuitry, and the unit includes a dedicated patch panel for CV/gate modulation and effect control.

Context

Named after the primordial Greek god of darkness, the Erebus was reissued in 2022 following demand from users who praised its warm, snappy character. According to Dreadbox, it is their most unique-sounding analog synthesizer. The original version was discontinued around 2016, and production of the V2 ended by the close of 2017. The reissue was announced in November 2022 and discussed in user forums through 2023 and 2024.

Market

The Dreadbox Erebus Reissue has been listed at prices starting from $305 for B-stock units, with new models available from $359. A DIY kit version exists, and some users have reported MIDI channel configuration issues requiring manual DIP switch adjustment.

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