Polyend / Medusa

Medusa is a hybrid synthesizer born from a collaboration between Dreadbox and Polyend, blending analog synthesizers with cutting-edge sequencers. Both teams have taken unique approaches to integrating the analog and digital realms into a whole new level of quality.

The innovative approach combines classic synthesis character with digital versatility and unique musical controllers, resulting in a sophisticated fusion of these two worlds.

While this combination may seem simple at first glance, it offers enormous potential.

The ""Grid""
It perfectly expresses your imagination and
Intuitively builds tracks
MEDUSA features 64 expressive, 3D grid pads. You can set the scale and layout as you like.
The grid, a collection of pads, stores 128 preset voices, chord memory, sequences, and over 100 modulators per step.
Each preset allows you to assign modulation parameters to pressure controls on the X, Y, and Z axes, enabling expressive performance.

Choose from three sequencing modes: Step, Live, and Incremental.

Unique musical controllers, sequencers, and powerful modulation sources are arranged in one powerful grid.

Program note sequences, modulations, parameter locks, and even synth voice presets per step for expressive possibilities beyond a single synthesizer.

When you're stuck for ideas, the built-in randomizer comes in handy. Voices, note sequences, and modulation can be randomized separately.

All necessary grid information is displayed on the clear OLED display. Customizable user menus allow for quick operation.

Do you prefer digital?

Or analog?

MEDUSA has it all.

Three syncable analog oscillators, each with four classic waveform types.

Features three different 24dB classic Dreadbox analog filters (2 Pole LP, 4 Pole LP, HP).
Frequency modulation for the analog oscillators and filters.
Analog noise generator with color shaping.
Three digital wavetable oscillators with 20 selectable wavetables.
Three different performance modes: monophonic, 3x semi-polyphonic, and 6x semi-polyphonic.
An audio input allows you to connect external audio sources and harness the power of the MEDUSA sound engine.
A second OLED screen displays all the synthesis data you need.
Ten independent modulation sources.
Five independent adjustable low frequency oscillators (LFOs).
Five independent adjustable and loopable DADSR envelopes.
Seven-path mixer with independent control of analog, digital, and noise. Separate volume controls are provided for headphones and the master audio output.

MIDI is supported via bidirectional USB and 5-pin DIN IN, OUT, and THRU.

Rugged Build

All analog and digital functions are neatly laid out in a sturdy tabletop aluminum chassis. Aluminum knobs are conveniently positioned for easy control, and four-level LED buttons provide visual feedback. The grid pads are made from silicone specially designed for the MEDUSA, providing optimal density and firmness for instant, accurate response.

Once you start, you won't be able to stop

Everything is innovative, bringing new quality and ideas to music. The MEDUSA Hybrid Synthesizer was born from genuine passion and the enduring relationship between Dreadbox and Polyend.

The original plan was to add a simple sequencer and preset functionality to the Dreadbox analog synthesizer.

However, the more we discussed it, the more this project grew into something completely different from the original plan.

We had to restrain ourselves from cramming more and more features into Medusa. Be warned, Medusa is a dangerously fun machine that will keep you hooked for a long time.

Product Specifications
3 digital wavetable oscillators
3 syncable oscillators with four classic waveforms
3 classic 24dB dreadbox analog filters with three different types (2-pole LP, 4-pole LP, HP)
5 independent LFOs
3 modes: monophonic, 3 paraphonic, 6 paraphonic
Rugged aluminum body
LED buttons
64 silicone pads for precise playability and customization
3 sequencer modes: step, live, incremental
256 independent memories for sequences and sound presets
2 OLED displays
7-voice mixer (analog, digital, noise)
5 independent, loopable DADSR envelopes

Dimensions: Width: 490mm
Depth: 205mm
Height: 50mm
Weight: 2.3kg