ASM Hydrasynth Explorer

The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer is the compact, portable version of Ashun Sound Machines' acclaimed wave morphing synthesizer. Launched as part of the Hydrasynth family, the Explorer packs the same powerful synthesis engine into a travel-friendly format with 37 mini-keys, battery power, and built-in speakers. If you want serious sound design capability without the bulk of a full-size keyboard, this is your ticket.

Synthesis Engine

At the core are three oscillators per voice, with oscillators 1 and 2 offering 219 single-cycle waveforms that can be morphed between using the WaveScan system. Each oscillator pair has access to dual Mutants — waveshaping processors that include FM synthesis, WavStack, hard sync, PWM, harmonic sweep, and phase distortion modes. The result is a staggering range of timbres from lush pads to aggressive leads and evolving textures. A dual-filter architecture offers 11 filter types including 12 and 24dB/oct ladder filters (modern and vintage), MS20-style, Low Pass Gate, and a Vocal filter. Filter 2 provides continuously variable crossfading between modes.

Modulation and Expression

The modulation system matches the larger Hydrasynths: five 6-stage DAHDSR envelopes (with looping capability), five LFOs with 10 waveforms plus a 64-step programmable wave, and a 32-slot mod matrix with 35 sources and 191 destinations. The Explorer has 4 macro knobs (accessed via two pages) for morphing multiple parameters. The 37-key polyphonic aftertouch keyboard responds to individual finger pressure, and the ribbon controller adds real-time expression that few portable synths can match.

Portable Features

The Explorer's standout feature is portability. Battery power lets you produce anywhere, while built-in speakers mean you don't need headphones or monitors for quick sessions. Despite the compact form factor, you get the full effects suite: chorus, flanger, phaser, rotary, distortion, compressor, EQ, delay, and reverb with hall, room, plate, and cloud modes.

Other Hydrasynth Variants

The Explorer shares its 8-voice engine with the Desktop module and original 49-key Keyboard. For more polyphony, the 73-key Deluxe offers 16 voices. All variants run the same synthesis architecture — the Explorer just delivers it in the most portable package.

Who Is This For?

• Mobile producers who want serious synthesis on the go with battery power
• Sound designers working in small spaces who need the full Hydrasynth engine
• Live performers seeking a compact, expressive synth for stage or travel
• Bedroom producers who value portability over full-size keys
• Hydrasynth fans wanting a second unit for location work or backup

The Explorer proves you don't have to sacrifice depth for portability. Same engine, same sound, just smaller and ready to travel.