Sequential has launched its latest instrument, the Fourm, a fully analogue, four‑voice polyphonic synthesiser that marks several firsts for the company — most notably its return to polyphonic aftertouch after 40 years.
What it Is
Fourm is described as Sequential’s most affordable synthesiser to date. It delivers warm, expressive analogue sound built on the architecture of the iconic Prophet‑5, featuring dual oscillators, classic 4‑pole low‑pass filtering, and envelope curves modelled after the original 1978 design.
One of the standout features is the new Tactive™ slim‑keys polyphonic aftertouch keybed — a bespoke design by Sequential intended to work tightly with Fourm’s analogue engine to allow expressive performance control across voices, something off‑the‑shelf keybeds couldn’t achieve.
Key Features & Design
- Polyphony: Four voices.
- Oscillators & Filter: Dual oscillators per voice; classic 4‑pole low‑pass filter; envelopes matching Prophet‑5 originals.
- Polyphonic Aftertouch: The return of this expressive control in a Sequential keyboard after decades.
- Modulation Matrix: A hands‑on, Pro‑One inspired top panel modulation matrix, with labelled sources & destinations, colour‑coded indicators and button‑press routing — designed to avoid “menu diving.”
- Feedback / Drive: An overdriven feedback routing option gives extra edge for performance and sound design.
- Size & Build: Compact footprint, steel chassis, 37 slim keys.
Price & Availability
Fourm is priced at £799 / €949 / US$999, depending on market.
Why It Matters
The Fourm is significant in several respects:
- Affordability of Polyphonic Analog: Sequential has positioned Fourm at a price point that competes more closely with monophonic synths than typical polyphonic analogue instruments. For many users, this lowers the barrier to entry into rich analogue polyphony.
- Expressive Control: Polyphonic aftertouch has been a rare feature in many modern instruments, and its reintroduction here underscores Sequential’s focus on performance dynamics, articulation, and expressive nuance.
- Hands‑on Sound‑Design: The modulation matrix on the panel (rather than hidden menus) plus feedback routing suggest this synth is designed both for studio sound design and live tweaking.
Verdict
Sequential’s Fourm is a bold move: blending heritage analogue design (Prophet‑5 lineage), expressive modern control (poly AT), and accessible price. For synthesiser enthusiasts, producers, and keyboard players who have long admired polyphonic Sequential sound but found it out of reach, Fourm may well hit a sweet spot. Its design suggests a focus on performance and hands‑on sound design rather than just studio polish.
Read more on the Sequential Fourm on the Sequential website
