Sonicware LIVEN Mega Synthesis

Full Description

Authentic sound recreation

The LIVEN Mega Synthesis accurately rebuilds the iconic YM2612 chip used in the first 16-bit consoles. With a 4-operator, 8-algorithm FM engine, you can sculpt complex tones that remain faithful to classic game soundtracks. The built-in PSG module produces square waves, pulse waves, and noise textures, while the PCM section enables authentic sample playback.

Legacy Mode further enhances this realism by adding the distinctive grittiness and frequency quirks of vintage hardware. You can also adjust the FILTER and LADDER parameters on FM tracks to mimic the unique 9-bit DAC behaviour of the original hardware. By combining all three sound modules, the LIVEN Mega Synthesis provides a true representation of the tones heard in iconic game music, making it suitable for both nostalgic recreations and new compositions inspired by that era.

Flexible 6-track sequencer

Its integrated sequencer offers 3 FM tracks, 2 PSG tracks, and 1 PCM track, giving you complete control over layered compositions. Patterns can span up to 8 bars, and parameter lock allows for step-by-step automation of sound settings, including knob movements and effect changes. Sound lock can also be used to switch between tones within a single track, adding even more variation.

You can chain patterns together to build full songs, and features like swing, random step playback, and stutter bring dynamics to your sequences. Copy-paste functions and tied notes make it easy to create longer sections, while both real-time and step input methods allow for quick experimentation.

Creative sampling options

The PCM module provides up to 8 seconds of sampling at 12 kHz, 4 seconds at 24 kHz, or 2 seconds at 48 kHz. With 96 sample slots, you can store and trigger a wide range of custom audio clips. Its auto-start and auto-slice functions streamline the recording process, while Drum Kit and One-Shot modes allow you to integrate your own hits and loops into tracks.

Sweep control adds dynamic modulation to samples, enhancing their character. This flexibility makes it easy to combine custom sounds with the FM and PSG engines, letting you blend classic synthesis with your personal library of audio material.

Integrated effects and performance controls

Ten onboard effects, including delay, reverb, distortion, crusher, and filters, let you enhance each track individually. You can adjust effect levels per track, tailoring the mix for live or studio contexts. The one-knob-per-function design simplifies control, while the 27-key input with octave shifting makes melodic input straightforward.

Functions like latch mode, stutter, and swing give you tools to shape live performances. MIDI support, stereo line outputs, headphone connectivity, and built-in speakers ensure the LIVEN Mega Synthesis fits seamlessly into your setup, whether used as a standalone device or part of a larger system.

Features

• Authentic recreation of the YM2612 sound chip with 4-operator FM synthesis, 8-bit PCM, and SN76489 PSG modules
• FM module with 4 operators, 8 algorithms, and deep sound editing including operator ratio fine-tuning
• PSG module generates square, pulse, and noise waveforms for classic retro tones
• PCM module with 8-bit mono sampling at 12, 24, and 48kHz with up to 8 seconds of sample time
• Legacy Mode simulates the original console's quirks, including DAC coloration and filter response
• Six-track sequencer with 3 FM, 2 PSG, and 1 PCM track for versatile game music creation
• Supports up to 128 steps per pattern, 128 patterns, parameter locks, sound locks, swing, and randomization
• Ten onboard effects including delay, reverb, distortion, crusher, compressor, filters, isolator, and remix effects
• Yuzo Koshiro sound bank with 32 presets and 8 exclusive patterns designed by the renowned composer
• Multiple voice modes including polyphonic, mono with glide, legato, and various arpeggiator patterns
• PCM auto-slice and auto-start functions with 96 sample slots across 16 banks
• 27-key mini keyboard with ±3 octave shifting and real-time recording
• 15 physical control knobs with latch mode, one encoder for precision, and visual value matching indicators
• MIDI I/O with control change, clock sync, data import/export, and firmware updates via SysEx
• Audio inputs and outputs via 3.5mm stereo mini-jacks with Pocket Operator sync compatibility
• Built-in speaker for portable standalone use
• Compact design measuring 297 x 176 x 48mm and weighing 790g

Specifications

• FM Sound Module [Tracks 1, 2, 3]: 4 Operators, 8 Algorithms, Maximum Polyphony: 6 Voices, Sound Editing In FM Edit Mode
• FM Voice Mode: Polyphonic Mode, Mono Mode With Adjustable Glide Time, Legato Mode With Adjustable Glide Time, Arpeggiator Modes (Up, Down, UpDown, DownUp, Up&Down, Down&Up, Up+1, Up+2, Down-1, Down-2, Random, Play Order)
• PSG Sound Module [Tracks 4, 5]: 11 Types Including Square Wave, Noise (Low/Mid/High) To Square Wave, Pulse Wave, Noise To Pulse Wave, Noise
• PSG Maximum Polyphony: 4 Voices
• PSG Voice Mode: Polyphonic, Mono, Legato, Arpeggiator Modes (Same As FM)
• PCM Sound Module [Track 6]: 8bit - 12/24/48kHz Linear PCM Sampling (Mono), Up To 8s Sampling (12kHz), 4s (24kHz), 2s (48kHz), Auto Start Sampling, Auto-Slice Function, Maximum Polyphony: 3 Voices (1 Voice In One-Shot Mode), 96 Sample Memory Slots (16 x 6 Banks), Import/Export Of Slots Or Banks Via MIDI
• PCM Voice Mode: Drum Mode, One-Shot Mode
• Sweep: Adjustable Speed, Range, Curve, Switchable Between Sweep Envelope And LFO
• Effects: Independent Send Per Track, Send Delay, Insert Delay, Reverb, Crusher, Distortion, Compressor, Low Pass Filter, High Pass Filter, Isolator, Remix Performance Effect
• Sequencer: 6 Tracks, Up To 128 Steps Per Pattern, 128 Patterns, Step Length 1/1 To 1/32, Real-Time Recording, Step Input, Tied Notes, Metronome & Pre-Count, Step/Track Copy & Paste, Duplicate Sequence, Transpose, Swing, Pattern BPM/Global BPM, Pattern Chain With Loop Playback, Independent Track Level & Pan, Parameter Lock, Sound Lock, Note Probability (25-100%), RANDOM & STUTTER Functions
• MIDI: Notes, Control Changes, Clock Input/Output, User Data Import/Export, Firmware Update Via Sysex
• Keyboard: 27 Keys With Hold Function
• Knobs: 15 Physical Control Knobs, Optional Latch Function, One Encoder For Fine Adjustments, LCD Dot For Value Matching
• Audio In: LINE IN (Stereo 3.5mm Mini-Jack), Compatible With Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator SYNC IN
• Audio Out: Stereo Line Out (Stereo 3.5mm Mini Jack), Headphone Out (Stereo 3.5mm Mini Jack), Built-In Speaker, Compatible With Pocket Operator SYNC OUT
• Interfaces: MIDI IN/OUT (5-Pin DIN), SYNC IN/OUT (3.5mm Mini Jack)
• Size: 297mm (W) x 176mm (D) x 48mm (H) / 11.7in (W) x 6.92in (D) x 1.89in (H)
• Weight: 790g / 1.74lb
• Product Code: LVN-070