Cyma Forma RND synth: One Button, Four Billion Sounds

The Cyma Forma RND is a synthesizer built around a single large button on its front face. It is constructed around eight synthesis engines: subtractive, FM, acid, noise, speech, Karplus‑Strong, supersaw and additive. With each button press, four of these engines are layered and run their own unique sequence, and each press randomises the parameters. The device includes five filter types plus a reverb effect.

Parameter combinations are extremely numerous — the instrument can produce over four billion possible sounds. The synth offers four-track audio output over USB‑C, four‑channel MIDI in and out, nine MIDI modes, MIDI clock in and out, analogue sync in and out, and a stereo mix output. This I/O configuration enables recording any sound into a DAW while using the unit. The Cyma Forma RND was developed in collaboration with French artist Bambounou and is available to preorder for $150 / £111, with shipping expected in late June.

The Cyma Forma RND synthesizer incorporates eight distinct synthesis engines, each contributing unique characteristics to the sound production. These engines include subtractive, FM, acid, noise, speech, Karplus-Strong, supersaw, and additive synthesis.

Subtractive synthesis is known for sculpting sounds by removing frequencies from a rich waveform, while FM synthesis uses frequency modulation to create complex timbres. Acid synthesis provides distinctive resonant squelches, ideal for electronic music, and noise synthesis generates a broad spectrum of frequencies used for percussive or atmospheric sounds.

The speech synthesis engine emulates human-like vocalizations, capturing formant characteristics. Karplus-Strong synthesis is great for simulating plucked string instruments by using delayed feedback loops, while supersaw synthesis creates lush, detuned layers of sound. Additive synthesis builds sound by combining multiple sine waves, allowing for detailed harmonic content.

Each time the synth’s single large button is pressed, the instrument layers four of these engines, creating a new sequence with randomized parameters. This process enables the generation of over four billion possible sound combinations, providing vast sonic exploration potential without complexity.

The Cyma Forma RND provides four-track audio output over USB-C and includes a stereo mix output. Its MIDI connectivity comprises four-channel MIDI in and out, and the unit supports nine MIDI modes as well as MIDI clock in and out. Analogue sync in and out are included alongside the digital and analog outputs, and the I/O arrangement is described as allowing the recording of any sound into a DAW while the device is in use. The available sources do not provide this information.

The Cyma Forma RND synth extends its versatility with additional built-in features, including five distinct filter types. These filters allow users to shape and mold the sound further, enriching the auditory experience. In addition to filtering capabilities, the synthesizer includes a dedicated reverb effect, enabling the creation of spacious and atmospheric sounds directly from the unit.

For those looking to enhance the portability and protection of their Cyma Forma RND, a flex case is available as a separate purchase. This accessory, designed to complement the synth, is priced at $66. It is ideal for users who require mobility or added security during transportation. The additional features of the Cyma Forma RND ensure that it is a robust tool ready for both studio and live performance settings, offering sound-shaping tools and practical options to meet diverse needs.

The Cyma Forma RND is available for preorder at a price of $150 in the United States and £111 in the United Kingdom. Customers who place their preorders can expect shipping to commence in late June.

Alongside its attractive pricing, the synth will also be prominently exhibited at the Berlin Superbooth event. Visitors can find the Cyma Forma RND at booth Z245, where it will be demonstrated to attendees.

This event allows potential buyers to experience the synth’s capabilities firsthand before its general release.

The available sources do not provide detailed information about the nature of the development collaboration between Cyma Forma and the French artist Bambounou. No specifics are given in the provided material about Bambounou’s role, the scope of the collaboration, or the stages of development in which the artist participated.

The available sources do not provide this information. The provided content does not include documentation, quotes, or technical details attributed to Cyma Forma or Bambounou regarding the collaborative process or timeline.

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