PWM Mantis Hybrid Analog Synthesizer

Born from the brilliant mind of the late Chris Huggett (creator of the Gnat, WASP, and OSCar) and brought to life through his collaboration with PWM's Paul Whittington, the Mantis synthesiser represents the final creative vision of one of electronic music's most innovative designers. This remarkable hybrid instrument was Chris's ultimate project, where he poured everything he had into creating something truly special during his final years. When he passed away, Chris entrusted Paul to complete the work and bring this extraordinary synthesiser to the world, knowing it deserved to be heard and enjoyed by musicians everywhere.

The Mantis operates as a sophisticated hybrid system where digitally-generated oscillators run on a DSP chip for rock-solid stability and precise control, while maintaining that distinctive character Chris was known for. From the mixer onwards, the entire signal path runs through pure analogue circuitry, featuring a multi-mode state variable VCA filter with overdrive built around the SSI2164 chip in Chris's own special configuration. The dual filter setup can operate in series or parallel modes, complete with width control and modulation capabilities that recreate the signature sound palette of the legendary OSCar.

Two comprehensive ADSR envelopes provide extensive sound shaping possibilities, each featuring an innovative 'Sustain Fall' parameter that creates dramatic drops before release even while keys remain held. Both envelopes can switch into repeat mode for pseudo-LFO duties, while built-in positive and negative velocity modulation adds expressive control. The analogue gain staging utilises SSI2164 VCAs with dual amplification stages that produce warm, natural clipping and overdrive characteristics, complemented by simple but effective digital reverb and chorus effects with comprehensive filtering options.