Buchla Ziggy is a desktop analog synthesizer that packages the core of West Coast synthesis into a patchcord-free oak and steel enclosure. Two fully analog oscillators, a Sallen-Key Low Pass Gate, digital modulation routing, and an onboard effects processor deliver a complete instrument ready for studio work or live performance without the complexity of a full modular rig.
West Coast signal architecture, no patch cables required
The Complex Oscillator runs from a sine core and accepts both frequency and amplitude modulation from the Modulation Oscillator, which operates from sub-LFO rates up into the audio range, functioning as a secondary sound source as well as an FM and AM carrier. The Timbre wavefolder adds harmonics in the classic Buchla manner. The Low Pass Gate works as VCA, filter, or both simultaneously, with continuously blendable envelope shapes rather than a fixed ADSR structure. The Cycler modulation source merges clock, envelope generator, LFO, and random generator in a single block with an Uncertainty control that introduces organic variation into sequences and patches. An additional XLFO provides a triangle wave modulation source. All modulation routing is handled via front-panel knobs and sliders with LED feedback — no physical jackfield needed. Patches save with a single button press and can be archived or edited via WebMIDI in any browser.
CV, MIDI and Eurorack integration out of the box
The 3.5mm 1V/oct, Gate, and CV modulation inputs provide full Eurorack compatibility and work directly with the Buchla LEM218 controller. MIDI is covered across USB-C, 5-pin DIN, and Type-A TRS mini, addressing every current hardware and DAW scenario. An auxiliary 3.5mm mono input routes external audio directly into the LPG, making Ziggy a capable external processor for drums or other mono sources. USB-C power means a powerbank is sufficient for field sessions and stage use without a wall outlet. Stereo output is provided via dual 1/4" jacks and a 3.5mm headphone output. The factory ships over 100 presets and the instrument supports custom scale and tuning configurations covering non-Western intervals.
KEY FEATURES
- Fully analog Complex Oscillator (sine core, FM, AM, Timbre wavefolder) and Modulation Oscillator (saw/square/triangle, LFO to audio-rate)
- Low Pass Gate: VCA, filter, or combined mode; Sallen-Key topology; continuously blendable envelopes
- Cycler: clock, envelope generator, LFO, and random generator in one block with Uncertainty parameter
- XLFO as supplementary triangle wave modulation source
- Digital control over analog signal path with one-button preset storage and WebMIDI browser editing
- Onboard digital effects: reverb, delay, chorus, pitch shift, flanger, distortion with wet/dry and macro size control
- Non-Western scale and custom tuning support
- USB-C power, oak and steel enclosure
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Oscillators: 2 x analog (Complex Oscillator + Modulation Oscillator)
- Filter/VCA: Low Pass Gate, Sallen-Key architecture
- MIDI: USB-C, 5-pin DIN, 3.5mm TRS Type A
- CV: 1V/oct, Gate, CV Modulation (3.5mm jack)
- Audio Out: 2 x 1/4" jack (stereo), 3.5mm headphone
- Audio In: 3.5mm mono (into LPG)
- Power: USB-C (power bank / computer / wall adapter, not included)
- Presets: 100+ factory presets + user memory
- Editing: WebMIDI via browser, OTA firmware updates
