Dubreq introduced the Stylophone Gen X-2, enabling users to play the device without the traditional stylus.
A new addition to the world of electronic music instruments, the Gen X-2 Stylophone, has been officially released this week. This beloved budget instrument, first invented in 1967, has undergone several transformations over the years, and the Gen X-2 is the latest iteration in its evolution.
The Gen X-2 Stylophone retains the core essence of its predecessor while introducing several upgrades that significantly expand its control options and expressive capabilities.
Key Features of the Gen X-2 Stylophone
The Gen X-2 Stylophone features a two-octave stylus-played keyboard, allowing for a wider range of melodies. It also includes an octave switch for adjusting pitch range and an additional octave on the sub-oscillator, providing even more tonal variety.
One of the most notable improvements is the enhancement of external control capabilities. The Gen X-2 supports CV/gate via five mini-jacks, allowing integration with other set-ups or control via an external keyboard or sequencer. This feature makes it possible for the Gen X-2 to interface with full-size keyboards, sequencers, and modular synth setups.
The Gen X-2's expression strip, a touch-sensitive ribbon controller, has been upgraded to offer multi-functional control over the LFO and filter. This strip can be used for effects like wah, pitch bend, and vibrato, adding a new level of expressiveness to the instrument.
Other notable features include a delay effect with controls for mix, delay time, and feedback amount, and an LFO with square and triangle waves that can be assigned to both pitch and pulse width modulation (PWM) frequency.
Pricing and Availability
The Gen X-2 Stylophone is powered by 4 AA batteries and is available on Dubreq's website for more information. It retails for £69.95/€79.95/$99.00, offering excellent value for money with its new features.
Notable Users and Legacy
The Stylophone has been used by artists such as David Bowie and Kraftwerk, and its popularity continues to endure. Dubreq, the manufacturer of the Stylophone, has expanded its product line to include drum machines, theremins, and a drone synth, further cementing its position in the electronic music world.
For those interested in exploring the Gen X-2 Stylophone, Anderton's has a demo available to watch. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of electronic music, the Gen X-2 Stylophone is a versatile and affordable instrument worth considering.
The Gen X-2 Stylophone, featuring a two-octave stylus-played keyboard and an enhancement of external control capabilities, is capable of integrating with other set-ups or being controlled via an external keyboard or sequencer, opening up opportunities for it to interface with full-size keyboards, sequencers, and modular synth setups.
The new Gen X-2 Stylophone, retained from its predecessor while boasting several upgrades, also offers a touch-sensitive ribbon controller for multi-functional control over the LFO and filter, providing musicians with a new level of expressiveness and making it a versatile and affordable instrument for both beginners and seasoned musicians in the world of electronic music.
