High-end digital synthesis from this boutique German brand. The Manatee combines distinctive spectral synthesis with virtual analogue and FM methods, creating multi-layered polyphonic sound with MPE control.

Supplier's Notes:
Manatee is the most advanced multitimbral synthesizer from Fred's Lab.

This project has been a labour of love, with 3 years of meticulous engineering work put into every aspect of its creation.

Powered by 2x dual-core DSPs and high-fidelity DACs, Manatee offers a minimum of 16 voices of pure digital sound shared between 4 parts. Coupled with a hands-on user interface putting all important synthesis parameters at fingertips reach, Manatee is a joy to explore and play with.

Fred's Lab new Spectral Engine, bolstered by a selection of modern VA Algorithms, delivers a beautifully unpolished raw sound, calling to be refined with the smooth multimode filter.

Manatee offers numerous per-voice and per-part complex modulation sources and wiring, including 'Meta Envelopes' and 'Custom LFOs'. MIDI expression controllers, such as polyphonic aftertouch, can shape modulation amounts at will. The additional 3-slot modulation matrix offers extra flexibility to the default routing options.

The multi-part architecture includes a dedicated stereo delay module and 2x equalizer sections for each part, providing up to 8 seconds of delay and various equalizer shapes like low cut, low shelf, high cut ... Additionally, a global insert reverb with various algorithms is there to add spaciousness to the entire mix.

Finally, the sturdy, powder-coated steel chassis of Manatee is full of robust parts, including metal potentiometers screwed to the panel, high-endurance switches, and high-reliability audio connectors. Built to withstand the rigors of touring and endless hours of use, Manatee is a durable choice for musicians and sound designers.

Connectivity

1x Line Level Main Bus - 6.35mm TR jacks
1x Line Level Aux Bus - 6.35mm TRS jacks (with return path)
1x Headphones Output - 3.5mm TRS jack
1x MIDI DIN5 Trio (IN, OUT, THRU)
1x Clock input - 3.5mm TRS jack (with start / stop)

Mechanics

Powder coated steel chassis
23x Metallic Potentiometers (panel screwed)
18x Illuminated Switches
8x Tactile Switches
Dimensions: 265 x 140 x 50 mm
Weight: 1.60kg

The Spectrum Generator

The Spectrum Generator uses pre-defined reference spectra and various harmonic manipulation tools to provide precise control and alteration of the timbre. Adjust formant, rotation of bins, the waveform used for signal reconstruction and more to craft the raw character. These parameters can be modulated for some complex soundscape creation.

The Sub-Oscillator

The Sub-Oscillator is designed to complement the Spectrum Generator, providing a wide range of sonic material to choose from. It features modern Virtual Analog Algorithms for classic waveform generation and super-saw and super-square waveforms. Additionally, it can play user-imported short waveforms for even greater versatility in sound creation.

The Noise Module

The Noise Module is an advanced source including a built-in continuous low-pass to high-pass filter for precise control over the noise spectral content. The noise sample rate can be programmed to generate crackles, glitches, or pure white noise, depending on the needs.

The Ring Modulator

The Ring Modulator is an iconic tool that multiplies the outputs of the two oscillators, making it perfect for generating inharmonic tones, special effects, and percussive sounds.

The Multimode Filter

The Multimode Filter uses hand-written assembly algorithms based on latest research on analogue modeling technology. It offers classic shapes in 12 and 24dB / octave, with filter tracking and self-resonance capabilities. The built-in saturations add subtle warmth and colour to the sound. The filter has a very smooth & natural ground character and react very fast to cutoff changes handling filter FM and fast envelopes with style.

The Overdrive

The Overdrive is a post-filter effect with a range of models, from gentle saturation and tube overdrive to more aggressive signal destruction through bitcrushing and clipping. It adds grit, warmth, and distortion to the sound for a dynamic and expressive performance. Algorithms are very natural sounding, analogue-like.

Meta-Envelopes
The Meta-Envelopes share their Attack, Sustain, and Release parameters, while each Decay stage is independent. Envelope stages can be switched on or off, allowing for a variety of shapes from a full ADSR to a simple gate. MIDI Velocity can be set to influence the Attack and Decay times, and envelope amplitude can be scaled with aftertouch. Envelopes can be looped and reset on triggering or set to keep its previous value.

Custom-LFOs

The Custom-LFOs provide an eclectic set of more than 16 waveforms, including noises and other algorithms, waveforms which can be chained together to create complex modulation sequences. Each LFO has its own AR envelope with Rise and Fall controls, and can be MIDI clocked and restarted for precise synchronization. Additionally, some MIDI parameters can influence the LFO amplitude.

The Modulation Matrix

The Modulation Matrix consists of 3x slots for each voice, providing extensive routing options to enhance the hardwired connections. The matrix offers a large selection of sources and destinations that cover almost all sound parameters. The modulation amount can be scaled by common MIDI parameters such as Aftertouch, Velocity, and more, allowing for expressive playing styles.

The Delay Module

The Delay Module offers Mono, Stereo, and Ping-Pong modes, with MIDI clock synchronization and adjustable feedback, mix, and colour controls. It supports a range of delay lengths, from very short - resonator-like - to free delay length up to 8 seconds. Each part has its own independent delay module.

The Equalizer Section

The Equalizer Section features two independent equalizers for each part, offering cut, boost, or shelf modes and adjustable corner frequencies. This is a powerful tool for blending the sounds of the different parts.

The Part Mixer

The Part Mixer provides flexible routing (audio buses), volume and panning controls for each part. It also defines the amount of signal sent to the master Reverb.

The Master Reverb

The Master Reverb is a high-quality algorithmic reverberation unit with a pleasant not bright but clean sound. It offers multiple programs with rooms and halls. This reverb is a handy mixing tool, making the overall sound more cohesive and polished.

Electronics

Manatee is powered by 2x 200MHz dual-core DSPs, offering advanced audio synthesis capabilities and an impressive dynamic range. Included too are 128 MBit of SRAM, 512 kBit of EEPROM, 4x 24-bit Burr Brown DACs, and transparent line and headphone drivers.

User Interface

The interface offers hands-on controls over all major synthesis parameters for all sound modules. The strong torque potentiometers feature Nylon knobs that provide a satisfying haptic feel. The high contrast 16x2 LCD screen clearly displays feedback through both text and small graphics.