Genki Instruments has officially premiered Katla, a Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer that blends high-end music technology with organic, geological aesthetics. The instrument is physically framed by side panels and knobs forged from authentic Icelandic lava, providing a tangible connection to the volcanic forces that inspired its design.
An Evolving Sonic Landscape
The Reykjavik-based developer designed Katla to move beyond static synthesis, infusing the engine with unpredictable, organic behavior. The result is a sound palette capable of rich, evolving, and multi-layered textures where each note appears to swell and erupt with its own distinct character. The synth features five independent voices, each equipped with its own dedicated sub-oscillator, filter, amplifier, LFO, and envelope.
Voice Rotation and Unison Modes
At the heart of Katla is its unique voice-rotating engine. The instrument routes notes across five discrete voices using three round-robin attributes: cycling forward, cycling backward, or selecting voices at random. This creates a dynamic, rotating pattern of sound that keeps performances feeling alive. Additionally, the synth includes three unison modes—Staccato, Legato, and Mono—which dynamically allocate voices based on playing style.
Advanced Sound Shaping
Katla offers deep sound design capabilities, including four independent distortion destinations and a stereo CMOS Drive effect. The instrument also features a digital plate reverb inspired by classic 1980s hardware, adding depth and ambiance to the signal path. For those looking to integrate external gear, Katla provides five external inputs, allowing users to process audio through its analog signal path.
Key Features
- Five independent voices with individual filters and LFOs
- MPE compatibility for expressive control
- Clock sync for DAW and external hardware integration
- Keyboard tracking for unique per-note character
- Hand-assembled in Iceland
Katla is available now, retailing at €4990. With its combination of raw Icelandic materials and sophisticated digital architecture, it stands as a bold new entry in the world of professional synthesizers.
