SOMA Labs’ ENIGMA is an innovative synth instrument which produces sound based on metallic objects placed on its surface.
Almost no objects are off limits, and their shape, size and type will influence the sounds produced. Even fractional movements can alter the sound.
It works using a sensing field, a scanner that detects the presence of metallic objects or within a short distance (up to 20mm) above it.
Thanks to a high-quality industrial grade film, the ENIGMA is scratch-resistant – clearly important when some objects might be sharp or scratchy.
Eight touch sensors allow switching between operating states. In certain states, various MIDI signals can be recognised including clock, start, stop, continue, notes (no velocity) and pitch bend.
The instrument is meant to be discovered, with the manual stating: “Everything else — how the field responds, how materials interact, how gestures translate into structure, what internal mechanisms awaken— is meant to be discovered. We invite you to become an explorer of sonic landscapes concealed inside ENIGMA! Let discovery itself become part of the experience and the performance. In return, you will gain a unique instrument that can be played in a unique way. Different musicians may arrive at entirely different interpretations of its functions and capabilities — and may uncover entirely different ENIGMAs. And that is beautiful! For every explorer of the unknown, reality reveals itself in a singular way…”
On the rear panel is volume control, 3.5mm headphone output, left and right 6.3mm outputs, CV clock input, MIDI input, power input and power switch.
Shown off at Superbooth this year, it is available now.
Specifications
| Power supply | DC +12V, center positive |
| Current consumption | 100 mA |
| CV clock input range | 3.3–20V |
| Maximum line output signal | 18V peak-to-peak |
| Dimensions | 340 x 320 x 40 mm |
| Weight (without power supply and packaging) | 2 kg |
Pricing at €680. Check out pricing on Reverb.
