Modal Electronics has announced Element One, an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer based on the Cobalt synthesis engine, priced at €649/$599 and shipping in July 2026.
Two independent oscillator groups per voice, up to eight oscillators total per voice, and 40 algorithms that span basic waveforms through sync, ring modulation, cross modulation, PWM, and bit crushing. The filter section has over 30 types. Three envelope generators, three audio-rate LFOs, and three independent stereo effects engines handle the rest of the signal chain. The unit also ships with 300 presets and is compatible with the existing Cobalt8 patch library, giving buyers access to a significantly larger sound set from day one.
Element One comes after a period of restructuring for Modal Electronics. The company went through administration in 2023 before relaunching. The Element One is the first new instrument from the relaunched company, and it’s positioned as a performer-first instrument. The interface is deliberately stripped back compared to the Cobalt8, with 17 knobs and a newly designed 4-axis joystick rather than the deeper menu system of the original. The Cobalt8’s synthesis architecture is retained underneath, but the playing experience is meant to prioritize hands-on real-time control over deep editing.
The keyboard is 37 keys with velocity and channel aftertouch. A stereo audio input lets external sources run through the onboard effects. Connectivity includes USB-C MIDI and standard MIDI In/Out.
Features
- 8-voice polyphony, up to 8 oscillators per voice (64 total).
- 2 oscillator groups per voice, 40 synthesis algorithms.
- Over 30 filter types.
- 3 envelope generators, 3 audio-rate LFOs.
- 3 independent stereo effects engines.
- 300 presets, Cobalt8 patch-compatible.
- 37-key keyboard with velocity and channel aftertouch.
- 4-axis assignable joystick.
- Stereo audio input (processed through onboard FX).
- USB-C MIDI, MIDI In/Out.
- Steel and polycarbonate enclosure, 4.5kg.
Pricing & Availability
Available July 2026 at €649 / $599.
{PRODUCT-HEADER-22885-cobalt8}.
{PRODUCT-HEADER-30460-cobalt5s}.
Read More