MIDI Polyphonic Expression, or MPE, represents a significant leap forward in musical instrument control. Unlike traditional MIDI, which applies control changes globally to all notes, MPE allows for independent expressive control over each individual note. This means you can bend the pitch, vary the timbre, and adjust the volume or other parameters for specific notes within a chord, creating incredibly nuanced and dynamic performances. For musicians seeking to add a new layer of expressiveness and organic feel to their electronic music, an MPE synthesizer is an essential tool. This article will guide you through the best MPE synthesizers on the market, detailing their features and helping you make an informed choice.
Understanding MPE: A Paradigm Shift in Control
Before exploring specific instruments, it is crucial to grasp what makes MPE so revolutionary. Traditional MIDI, while foundational, has limitations when it comes to polyphonic expression. When you apply a pitch bend or modulation wheel movement, it typically affects all notes currently being played.
How MPE Enhances Expressiveness
MPE overcomes these limitations by assigning unique MIDI channels to individual notes. This allows for multi-dimensional control, commonly including:
Pressure (Polyphonic Aftertouch): Varying the loudness or timbre of individual notes by pressing harder.
Slide (Y-axis): Modulating a parameter by sliding your finger up or down on a key or pad.
Pitch Bend (X-axis): Bending the pitch of an individual note, similar to a guitarist bending a string.
Timbre (Z-axis, or often combined with pressure/slide): Modulating a sound’s characteristic, allowing for evolving textures.
This level of granular control opens up a universe of sonic possibilities, enabling performances that are far more organic and human-like than previously achievable with standard MIDI.
Why Invest in an MPE Synthesizer?
The benefits of incorporating an MPE synthesizer into your setup extend beyond mere technical novelty. They fundamentally alter the way you interact with sound.
Unparalleled Expressiveness: Achieve guitar-like bends on individual notes within a chord or subtle vibrato on a single voice, creating richer, more emotive soundscapes.
Dynamic Performance: Infuse your music with a level of dynamics and nuance that makes every performance unique and engaging.
New Creative Pathways: MPE encourages novel playing techniques and sound design approaches, pushing you to explore uncharted sonic territories.
Intuitive Interaction: For many, MPE feels more natural and tactile, bridging the gap between acoustic instrument playability and electronic sound generation.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an MPE Synthesizer
When selecting the best MPE synthesizer for your needs, several factors should influence your decision.
MPE Compatibility and Integration
Ensure the synthesizer fully supports MPE both in its hardware and software implementation. Some synths are built from the ground up for MPE, while others might have it added as a feature. Consider how well it integrates with your existing MPE controllers, if you have any.
Sound Engine and Synthesis Type
MPE can breathe new life into various synthesis methods. Consider what type of sound you are aiming for:
Wavetable Synthesis: Excellent for evolving, complex timbres that benefit greatly from MPE’s continuous control.
FM Synthesis: MPE can make FM sounds incredibly dynamic and responsive.
Analog Modeling/Virtual Analog: Offers classic warmth with modern MPE expressiveness.
Granular Synthesis: MPE can provide intricate control over grain parameters.
Polyphony
While MPE allows for individual note control, the number of voices (polyphony) the synthesizer offers is still crucial, especially for rich chords and pads. More polyphony generally means more simultaneous expressive notes.
User Interface and Workflow
An intuitive interface with clear feedback is vital for harnessing MPE’s power. Easy access to modulation assignments and sound design parameters will enhance your creative flow.
Connectivity and Software Integration
Check for standard MIDI DIN, USB MIDI, and audio outputs. Software editors or VST/AU plugin integration can also streamline your workflow.
Price Point
MPE synthesizers range from highly affordable software instruments to premium hardware devices. Define your budget and prioritize features accordingly.
Top MPE Synthesizers: A Comprehensive Overview
Here are some of the best MPE synthesizers that stand out in the current market, offering diverse synthesis types and features to suit various musical needs.
Expressive E Osmose
The Expressive E Osmose is a groundbreaking standalone MPE synthesizer and controller that combines a unique keyboard mechanism with a powerful EaganMatrix sound engine. Its keybed offers unprecedented three-dimensional control directly from each note, making it incredibly intuitive. The EaganMatrix engine, known for its deep sound design capabilities, truly shines with Osmose’s expressive input. It is a highly integrated solution for those seeking a complete MPE experience.
ASM Hydrasynth (Deluxe, Explorer, Desktop)
The Hydrasynth series from Ashun Sound Machines (ASM) is celebrated for its powerful 8-wave morphing wavetable synthesis and extensive modulation capabilities. All Hydrasynth models are fully MPE compatible, with the keyboard versions featuring polyphonic aftertouch. The Deluxe offers an expanded keyboard and polyphony, while the Explorer and Desktop versions provide more compact and affordable entry points. Its deep modulation matrix makes it an excellent platform for MPE experimentation.
Roli Seaboard Series (RISE, Block)
While primarily MPE controllers, Roli’s Seaboard instruments often come bundled with powerful software synthesizers like Equator2, making them complete MPE synthesis solutions. The unique ‘keywave’ surface allows for continuous pitch bends, slides, and pressure modulation on each note. The Seaboard RISE offers a full-featured experience, while the Seaboard Block provides a more portable and modular approach. They are iconic for their innovative playing surface.
Haken Continuum Fingerboard
The Haken Continuum Fingerboard is renowned for its unparalleled expressiveness and tactile playing surface. While a controller, it features an integrated sound engine (the EaganMatrix, also found in Osmose) that is incredibly powerful and responsive to its multi-dimensional input. It offers a truly unique and deeply immersive MPE experience, often favored by those seeking the ultimate in expressive control, though it comes with a significant learning curve and price tag.
Sensel Morph with Buchla Thunder Overlay
The Sensel Morph is a highly versatile MPE controller that, when combined with the Buchla Thunder overlay, transforms into a powerful MPE input device. While it doesn’t have an internal sound engine, its ability to send rich MPE data makes it an excellent companion for MPE-compatible software or hardware synthesizers. The Thunder overlay emulates the classic Buchla Thunder controller, offering a unique layout for expressive control.
Arturia MatrixBrute (with MPE update)
The Arturia MatrixBrute is a powerful analog monophonic/paraphonic synthesizer that received an MPE update, making it compatible with MPE controllers. While it doesn’t have an MPE-enabled keyboard itself, connecting an MPE controller unlocks its massive analog sound engine for polyphonic expression. This allows you to combine the warmth and character of true analog synthesis with the nuanced control of MPE.
Software MPE Synthesizers
Beyond hardware, many software synthesizers now offer full MPE support, providing powerful and often more affordable options:
Equator2 (Roli): Designed specifically for MPE, offering a versatile range of synthesis types.
Cypher2 (FXpansion/ROLI): Another MPE-focused synth with deep modulation capabilities.
Serum (Xfer Records): A popular wavetable synth with excellent MPE support, allowing for detailed parameter control per note.
Diva (u-he): Known for its analog authenticity, Diva also supports MPE for added expressiveness.
Bitwig Studio: This DAW has native MPE support, allowing its built-in instruments and many third-party plugins to fully utilize MPE data.
Conclusion
The world of MPE synthesizers is rapidly expanding, offering musicians unprecedented levels of expressive control and creative freedom. Whether you’re drawn to the integrated elegance of the Expressive E Osmose, the powerful wavetable synthesis of the ASM Hydrasynth, or the unique playing surface of the Roli Seaboard, there’s an MPE solution to fit your needs. By considering the synthesis type, polyphony, user interface, and your budget, you can find the best MPE synthesizer to unlock new sonic possibilities and bring a profound sense of touch and nuance to your music. Embrace MPE and transform your sound today.