The Sequential Circuits Prophet-10 is an improved and extended version of the famous Prophet-5, offering a doubled polyphony and even more impressive sound capacity. This iconic synthesizer has marked an era and continues to influence musicians and producers around the world.
Virtual Sequential Circuits PROPHET 10
Sequential Circuits Prophet-10: The Dual-Engine Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer
Overview of the Sequential Circuits Prophet-10
The Sequential Circuits Prophet-10, introduced in 1980, is a legendary analog polyphonic synthesizer known for its dual-engine design and rich, warm sound. Essentially a dual version of the iconic Prophet-5, the Prophet-10 offered twice the polyphony and twice the power, making it a favorite among professional musicians and producers.
Key Features of the Sequential Circuits Prophet-10
- Synthesis: Analog subtractive synthesis
- Polyphony: 10 voices
- Oscillators: 2 VCOs (Voltage Controlled Oscillators) per voice
- Filter: 24dB/oct lowpass filter with resonance
- Envelopes: 2 ADSR envelope generators
- LFO: 1 LFO with multiple waveforms
- Keyboard: 61-key keyboard
- Memory: 40 patch memory locations (expandable to 120)
- Modulation: Poly-mod section for complex modulation options
- Connectivity: CV/Gate inputs and outputs, MIDI (on later models)
Development and Innovation
The Prophet-10 was developed by Sequential Circuits to offer a more powerful version of the Prophet-5. By combining two Prophet-5 boards into one instrument, the Prophet-10 provided musicians with twice the polyphony and the ability to create even more complex and rich sounds. This innovation made the Prophet-10 a groundbreaking instrument in the early 1980s.
Unique Aspects
- Dual-Engine Design: Essentially two Prophet-5s in one, offering 10-voice polyphony
- Poly-Mod Section: Allowed for complex modulation routing and sound design
- Iconic Sound: Known for its warm, rich analog tones that defined the sound of the era
Impact on Music Production
Applications in Music
- Pop Music: Widely used in 1980s pop for its lush pads and bright leads
- New Wave: A staple sound in new wave and synth-pop genres
- Electronic Music: Favored for its warm bass sounds and atmospheric pads
- Film Scoring: Utilized in many film and TV soundtracks for its versatile sound palette
Legacy and Historical Significance
- Helped define the sound of early 1980s electronic music
- Influenced the design of subsequent synthesizers, both hardware and software
- Continues to be highly sought after by collectors and musicians for its classic sound
Conclusion: The Sequential Circuits Prophet-10’s Place in Synthesizer History
The Sequential Circuits Prophet-10 stands as an iconic instrument in the history of synthesizers. Its combination of rich analog sound, innovative dual-engine design, and user-friendly interface made it a favorite among musicians in the early 1980s. The Prophet-10’s legacy continues to influence modern synthesizer design, and its distinctive sound remains a staple in contemporary music production, cementing its status as a true classic in the world of synthesizers.