Kevin Parker, frontman of Tame Impala, has unveiled Orchid, an advanced chord-generating hardware synthesizer developed by his company Telepathic Instruments. This innovative instrument combines sophisticated sound generation with intuitive controls, making it accessible for both experienced musicians and beginners.

Key Features:

• 8-key chord selection matrix with single-octave keyboard
• 16-voice polyphonic synth engine
• Separate bass synth engine
• Built-in stereo speakers
• Velocity-sensitive keys
• Onboard effects (reverb, delay)
• Loop mode and MIDI output
• Portable battery-powered design

Sound Capabilities:

• Jazz and guitar chord emulation
• Synth and retro-futuristic sounds
• 88-key piano sound simulation
• Adjustable chord spreading for authentic sound
• Versatile chord logic system for endless combinations

The Orchid synthesizer will launch on December 18 for $549, with deliveries expected in early 2025. The initial release will be limited to 1,000 units available for pre-sale. The instrument's retro-futuristic design was created by co-founder Ignacio Germade.

Parker conceived the idea for Orchid over ten years ago, and its release comes amid his other creative ventures, including a recent "psychedelic minimalism" fashion collaboration with A.P.C. While Tame Impala's last album "The Slow Rush" was released in 2020, the band has remained active through various collaborations with artists like Thundercat and Diana Ross.

Related Articles

Previous Articles