Relic

Born from a 2017 vision to revive the lost art of discrete analog polyphony, this synthesizer delivers the authentic Oberheim sound of the 1970s with cutting-edge precision. Its eight independent voice cores—each a complete analog synth with two transistor-based VCOs (sawtooth and pulse waves)—run a pure subtractive signal path, free of op-amps in the oscillator cores.

A state-variable 12dB/octave multimode filter (lowpass, highpass, bandpass) anchors the classic tone, enhanced by four envelopes, four LFOs, and five modulation slots per voice. Four multitimbral parts with a zone allocator and 512-program memory (four patches each) unlock layered performances, controlled via hyperfine encoders, a high-res light fader mainbar, and eight minibars for intuitive, hands-on expression.

Built to order as a desktop powerhouse, it blends vintage warmth with modern digital modulation, sequencer, and mod matrix—securing its place among elite analog polys. Email relic@shearelectronics.com to join the waitlist.