Xena (3109 Version)

Picture this: a reborn legend from the DIY synth era, now polished into a ready-to-rock desktop powerhouse with the warm growl of a genuine Roland 3109 filter chip, straight out of JX and Juno classics.

Xena packs six voices, each with two digital oscillators drawing from 36 algorithms and wavetables, plus a sub-oscillator that doubles as a transient generator for punchy attacks. Pre-filter overdrive and bit-crushing add grit before hitting the analog 4-pole 3109 filter and VCA, delivering that sought-after Roland resonance. Modulation is deep with three ADSR envelopes, three per-patch LFOs, one voice-level LFO, and a 14-slot matrix with modifiers; sequence with an arpeggiator, note sequencer, or two step sequencers per part. Voices flex freely—full 6-voice poly, six monos, layered setups, or split unison bass/lead. Controls center on an intuitive LCD screen and knobs, with 5-pin MIDI I/O, six individual outputs, a mix out, and universal 12V power in a compact desktop chassis.

Synth enthusiasts love its build quality upgrade over the original Ambika, praising the authentic 3109 tone for lush pads and biting leads, though some note the digital osc engine shines brightest with heavy analog filtering.