Overview
Sequential Prophet-5 is an iconic analog synthesizer renowned for its warm, lush sound and versatile modulation capabilities. Introduced in 1978, the Prophet-5 revolutionized electronic music production and became a staple in countless classic recordings.
Design and Features
Polyphony and Oscillators:
- 5-voice polyphonic architecture
- Dual oscillators per voice with sawtooth, pulse, and triangle waveforms
Filter and Amplification:
- Resonant 24 dB/octave lowpass filter with variable cutoff and resonance
- VCA with adjustable decay and release times
Modulation:
- Extensive modulation matrix with 57 assignable parameters
- LFOs, envelopes, and sequencer for creating dynamic sound changes
Keyboard and Controls:
- 61-note keyboard with velocity and aftertouch sensitivity
- Intuitive front panel with dedicated knobs and sliders for easy sound shaping
Impact on Electronic Music
Popularity and Influence:
- The Prophet-5 was widely adopted by musicians in the 1980s, including Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, and Prince.
- Its distinctive sound became synonymous with synth-pop, new wave, and electronic dance music.
Sound Characteristics:
- Warm, organic sound with a rich midrange
- Lush pads, soaring leads, and funky basslines
Legacy and Revival
Legacy:
- The Prophet-5 remains a highly sought-after synthesizer among collectors and enthusiasts.
- Its influence can be heard in countless modern electronic music genres.
Revival:
- Sequential Circuits, the original manufacturer, relaunched the Prophet-5 in 2020 as the Prophet-5 Rev 4.
- The new version offers modern improvements while retaining the classic sound and functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Polyphony | 5 voices |
| Oscillators | Dual oscillators per voice, sawtooth, pulse, triangle |
| Filter | Resonant 24 dB/octave lowpass |
| Modulation | Assignable modulation matrix with 57 parameters |
| Keyboard | 61 notes, velocity and aftertouch |
| Dimensions | 71.1 x 45.7 x 16.5 cm (28 x 18 x 6.5 in) |
| Weight | 14.5 kg (32 lbs) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is unique about the Prophet-5’s sound?
The Prophet-5 is renowned for its warm, organic sound with a rich midrange. It produces lush pads, soaring leads, and funky basslines.
2. What are some notable artists who have used the Prophet-5?
Depeche Mode, Gary Numan, Prince, Jean-Michel Jarre, and John Carpenter are among the many famous musicians who have used the Prophet-5.
3. What are the differences between the original Prophet-5 and the Rev 4?
The Rev 4 features modern improvements such as a digital interface, polyphonic aftertouch, and MIDI and USB connectivity. However, it retains the classic analog sound and design of the original.
4. Is the Prophet-5 still relevant in modern electronic music production?
Yes, the Prophet-5 remains a highly respected synthesizer, both as a hardware and software emulation. Its versatile sound and modulation capabilities make it suitable for a wide range of genres.
5. What is the approximate cost of a Prophet-5?
The original Prophet-5 is a coveted vintage synthesizer and can fetch a high price on the used market. The Rev 4 costs approximately $3,999.
References
Sequential Prophet-5 Synthesizer
The Sequential Prophet-5 is an analog polyphonic synthesizer manufactured by Sequential Circuits, Inc. Released in 1978, it was one of the first widely successful polyphonic synthesizers, with over 6,000 units produced.
The Prophet-5 is known for its warm, lush sound, with its two voltage-controlled oscillators per voice, low-pass filter, and envelope generator. Its user interface is simple and intuitive, featuring two LFOs, a noise generator, and a built-in arpeggiator.
The Prophet-5 has been used by numerous musicians, including Phil Collins, Michael Jackson, and Stevie Wonder. Its distinctive sound has been featured on countless recordings and has helped define the sound of popular music in the late 1970s and beyond.
The Analog Synthesizer Prophet-5
The Prophet-5 is an analog synthesizer that was produced by Sequential Circuits from 1978 to 1984. It was one of the first polyphonic analog synthesizers, and it was known for its warm and lush sound.
The Prophet-5 was designed by Dave Smith and Roger Linn. It featured five voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), two voltage-controlled filters (VCFs), and three voltage-controlled amplifiers (VCAs). The VCOs could be used to create a wide variety of sounds, and the VCFs and VCAs could be used to shape and mix them.
The Prophet-5 was used by many notable musicians, including Stevie Wonder, Gary Numan, and Depeche Mode. It is still considered to be one of the best analog synthesizers ever made.
Sequential Prophet-5 Analog
The Sequential Prophet-5 Analog is a modern analog polyphonic synthesizer that captures the essence of the legendary Prophet-5 from the 1980s. Featuring five discrete voltage-controlled oscillators, a classic 24 dB low-pass resonant filter, and a modulation matrix with four envelope generators and three LFOs, it offers an expansive sonic palette for creating lush pads, soaring leads, and complex soundscapes. With its robust metal construction, intuitive controls, and pristine sound quality, the Sequential Prophet-5 Analog stands as a timeless analog masterpiece for contemporary electronic music enthusiasts.
Prophet-5 Analog Synthesizer
The Prophet-5 is a classic analog synthesizer produced by Sequential Circuits from 1978 to 1984. It is renowned for its warm, rich sound and versatility, making it a favorite among musicians in various genres.
Notable features of the Prophet-5 include:
- Five voltage-controlled oscillators with a wide range of waveforms
- Two resonant filters (low-pass and high-pass) for shaping the sound
- Three envelope generators for controlling the attack, decay, sustain, and release of the sound
- Two low-frequency oscillators for modulation and vibrato effects
- A built-in arpeggiator and sequencer for creating rhythmic patterns
- A distinctive polyphonic sound, capable of playing up to five notes simultaneously
The Prophet-5 has been used by countless musicians over the years, including Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Genesis. Its influence on electronic music is profound, and it remains a highly sought-after instrument today.
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