Evolver (synthesizer)

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The Evolver is an analog–digital hybrid synthesizer designed by Dave Smith and released by Dave Smith Instruments. It first came out as a desktop module in 2002, and a 37-key Evolver Keyboard followed later. A more powerful Poly Evolver line appeared as a rack version (2005–2010) and a 61-key Poly Evolver Keyboard (2005–2014). The original Evolver and its poly versions were later succeeded by newer models like the Prophet 12 and Pro 2.

What it is and how it works
- Architecture: Monophonic on a single unit, but you can chain multiple Evolvers via MIDI to create more notes of polyphony. The Poly Evolver variants provide true polyphony.
- Oscillators: Four oscillators total. Oscillators 1 and 3 are analog; 2 and 4 are digital. The analog waves include saw, triangle, a saw–triangle mix, and pulse (which can become a square at a pulse width of 50%). The digital oscillators offer 95 wavetable waveforms from the Prophet VS, plus the option to load 16-bit user waves into RAM.
- Channel layout: The two analog oscillators are hardwired to the left channel and the two digital oscillators to the right.
- Modulation between oscillators: The two analog oscillators can be hard synced together. The digital oscillators can be ring-modulated and frequency-modulated to each other independently.
- Tuning: Each oscillator can be tuned over a wide range (about 10 octaves).
- Noise: White noise is available as a sound source and is routed through the filter.
- Filters: Two analog low-pass filters (one for each stereo channel) that can be set to 4-pole or 2-pole. Each filter has its own ADSR envelope and is capable of self-oscillation. There’s also a digital high-pass filter that can be used after or before the low-pass filters.
- Amplifier and envelopes: The VCA uses an ADSR envelope, and there’s a third ADSR used for modulation purposes.
- Modulation and LFOs: Four LFOs are available for modulation with a wide range of speeds, from very slow to very fast.
- Effects: Distortion, delay (three taps with independent delays), a “hack” (bit-crusher/decimator), stereo feedback loops, and a “grunge” effect. All effects except hack can be modulated by the LFOs.
- Sequencer: A 4×16 analog-style step sequencer can drive modulation destinations. Each of the 16 steps can control duration, level, and even change the digital oscillator’s waveform on that step. The sequencer can be clocked internally, by MIDI clock, or by MIDI notes and can be used to sequence other MIDI gear.
- Arpeggiator: The Evolver Keyboard adds a hidden arpeggiator function that uses the same controls as the sequencer.

Storage and specs
- Programs: 512 memory slots for sound programs.
- Keyboard and controls: The desktop Evolver, Evolver Keyboard (37 keys), Poly Evolver Rack, and Poly Evolver Keyboard (61 keys) offered various instrument configurations and sizes.
- Synthesis types: Subtractive synthesis with analog components, plus digital wavetable oscillators and FM/ ring-modulation capabilities, giving a wide palette of sounds.
- Sound character: Known for its evolving, organic textures and ability to move between harsh and lush tones, making it a flexible tool for experimental and electronic music.

In short, the Evolver combines two analog and two digital oscillators, advanced filtering and envelopes, a robust modulation system, built-in effects, and a powerful step sequencer to create dynamic, ever-changing sounds. It’s designed to be used as a single voice or chained with other units for more polyphony, and its Poly Evolver versions expand that capability even further.