Dreadbox Hades (2022 Reissue)
An analogue monophonic bass synthesizer reissued in 2022, USB-powered with OTA distortion and VCO-based sound generation.
Overview
The Dreadbox Hades is a reissue of an analogue monophonic bass synthesizer that had been discontinued. It came back as a ready-made unit after first showing up as a DIY kit. Dreadbox built it for deep, dark bass tones, and it works as a semi-modular desktop synth with . The company announced the Hades was no longer in production. It is a compact, USB-powered box meant for portable use and building basslines. User communities often discuss it alongside other Dreadbox synths like the Erebus, since the form and function are similar.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 21.5 x 13 x 6.5 cm |
| Weight | 0.9 kg |
| Width (Eurorack) | 42 TE / HP |
| Power requirements | USB-A Adapter (5v) with 1000mA or more |
| Oscillator | VCO with 2 suboctaves |
| Waveform | Sawtooth |
| Controls | Pulse width, glide |
| Effects | OTA distortion |
| Battery Life | 50 Playing hours |
| Original price | $299 suggested retail price |
| Current price | $319.00 |
Design
The Hades is a faithful copy of Dreadbox's original analog bass synth. It has OTA distortion and a VCO with a sawtooth waveform and two suboctaves. It runs on USB power and draws 1.5 watts. The unit is a compact desktop box with a semi-modular analog signal path. Dreadbox calls it a "construction kit for basslines," and it is built to be played right away.
Context
The Hades came back first as a DIY kit, then as a factory-built unit alongside the Erebus reissue. Dreadbox announced that it would no longer be produced, which ends the latest production run. Users often compare it to other Dreadbox synths like the Erebus, Typhon, and NYX, especially for bass duties in modular or desktop setups.
Market
The Dreadbox Hades sold new at $319.00, and earlier listings showed a $299.00 MSRP. Used units get talked about in the community, where $250 counts as a potential deal for a secondhand one. No common failures or maintenance issues are documented in available sources.
eBay Listings
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