The Modal Cobalt8 is a powerful 8-voice virtual analog synth. With a unique take on oscillator algorithms, plenty of modulation options, and three effect engines, its sound design capabilities go beyond what you’d expect. When controlling Omnisphere, you have access to 40 wavetables per oscillator, the modulation matrix, and a good selection of effects. Once you learn how to navigate the panel (some functions require pressing Shift or menu diving), it’s easy to come up with good sounds. Its sturdy build quality, nice-feeling keyboard, sequencing/arpeggiation features, and price point make it a great controller for Omnisphere.
Modal Cobalt8 Strengths:
- Unique Virtual Analog Synth
- Good Effects Section
- Deep Modulation Capabilities
- Reasonably Priced
Modal Cobalt8 Details:
| Retail Price | 37-key $769 61-key $969 Module: $669 |
|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 37, 61, Module |
| Keyboard Type | Full |
| Size of Controls | Medium |
| Special Features | Unique Virtual Analog Synth |
| Dimensions | 37-key: 21.9” x 11.8” x 4” 61-key: 33.7” × 11.8” × 4” Module: 15” × 5” × 3.2” |
| Weight | 37-key: 12.4 lbs 61-key: 19.9 lbs Module: 4.6 lbs |
| USB Powered | No |
| Pitch Bender | Joystick: Keyboards only |
| Mod Wheel | Joystick: Keyboards only |
| Sends Aftertouch | No |
| Sustain Pedal Input | Yes |
| Expression Pedal Input | Yes |
| Ribbon | No |
| Non-Functional Controls | Shift FX parameters Play Record Mute Init Patch Save Shift + Audio In Shift + Mode Shift + Seq Shift + Random Shift + Anim1 Shift + Anim2 Shift + Anim3 Shift + Bank |
| Arpeggiator | Yes |
| Sequencer | Yes |
| MIDI Messages | CC, NRPN |
Omnisphere Sections Controlled by the Modal Cobalt8:
| Independent Layer Control | No |
|---|---|
| Number of Oscillators | 3 |
| Number of Wavetables | 40 |
| Number of Envelopes | 3 |
| Number of LFOs | 3 |
| Filter Types | None |
| FX Units | Global Ambience Global Limiter Analog Chorus Analog Phaser Analog Flanger Retro Flanger Vintage Tremolo Toxic Smasher Solina Ensemble Magnetic Echo Swiss Army Delay Retroplex Super Verb |
| Soundsources | No |
| Mod Matrix | Yes |
| FM | Yes |
| Ring Mod | No |
| Waveshaper | No |
| Unison | Yes |
| Harmonia | No |
| Granular | No |
| ORB | No |
| Arpeggiator | Yes |
Ratings
| Control of Omnisphere |  |
|---|---|
| Panel Layout |  |
| Ease of Use | |
| Keyboard Feel | |
| Build Quality | |
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