The new L1 faithfully recreates the warm tonal quality and layered richness unique to vintage analog synthesizers
During The 2025 NAMM Show at booth 3615, Donner has unveiled its highly acclaimed ESSENTIAL lineup of synthesizers with the brand new ESSENTIAL L1 Monophonic Analog Synthesizer.
The ESSENTIAL L1 is a product that not only inherits the iconic design philosophy of the 1980s synthesizers but also integrates cutting-edge modern technology. It is poised to become a powerful tool for music creators, combining vintage charm with advanced performance.
Classic Heritage, Legendary Sound Quality
The ESSENTIAL L1 is built on the foundation of the classic 3340 Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) and 3109 Voltage-Controlled Filter (VCF) chips, faithfully recreating the warm tonal quality and layered richness unique to vintage analog synthesizers. Thanks to this design, the device excels in producing anything from deep, resonant bass to bright, expressive lead tones, catering to genres ranging from pop to experimental music. Additionally, the 3109 filter’s self-oscillation capabilities allow users to seamlessly switch between soft and subtle tones to sharp and aggressive sounds, further expanding creative possibilities.
Modular Design for Infinite Creativity
The ESSENTIAL L1 embodies a modular philosophy, with individual components that can operate independently or interact seamlessly, unlocking endless creative potential. The oscillator section supports multiple waveforms, including sawtooth, pulse, triangle, and noise, and features sub-octave output options (-1 and -2 frequencies) for rich and dynamic tonal variations. The Low-Frequency Oscillator (LFO) offers multiple waveform modulations and synchronization with external clock signals, working in harmony with the sequencer and arpeggiator modules.
With two envelope generators (ENV1 and ENV2), the ESSENTIAL L1 provides precise dynamic control. ENV1 can modulate various targets, such as oscillator pitch and filter frequency, while ENV2 is dedicated to controlling the Voltage-Controlled Amplifier (VCA) for fine volume adjustments. Additionally, the ESSENTIAL L1 includes a 64-step sequencer and a five-mode arpeggiator. Users can design intricate sequences, save up to 128 patterns, and compose up to 32 full songs, balancing the demands of improvisation and complex arrangement with ease.
Comprehensive Connectivity for Modern Production
The ESSENTIAL L1’s interface is designed with modern music production in mind. The device supports standard CV/GATE outputs, ensuring seamless integration with modular synthesizers. It also offers USB MIDI and traditional MIDI IN/OUT ports, enabling smooth communication with computers and other MIDI-compatible devices.
Introducing a forward-thinking feature, the ESSENTIAL L1 boasts the S2C (Snap2Connect) magnetic keyboard system. Its KB-32M keyboard connects magnetically to the synthesizer body, enabling quick assembly and disassembly. This design not only enhances portability but also significantly expands the synth’s functionality. The KB-32M will be compatible with other synthesizers in the Donner ESSENTIAL series, while the ESSENTIAL L1 itself can connect to similar expandable keyboards, providing users with a richer range of functional combinations and creative possibilities.
The external audio input further broadens the device’s scope, allowing users to feed external audio signals into the filter module for unique sound processing. The ESSENTIAL L1 is also compatible with Donner Control software, which provides in-depth parameter editing and customization via USB. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for both meticulous studio production and dynamic live performances.
Minimalist Design, Portable and Intuitive
The ESSENTIAL L1 continues Donner’s tradition of minimalist design, with a width of just 450 millimeters and a weight of less than 1 kilogram, making it ideal for portability. Whether in a home studio, on the go or during live performances, the ESSENTIAL L1 ensures consistent and reliable performance. Its control panel is well-organized with intuitive knobs, sliders and buttons, allowing users to quickly adjust sound parameters to enjoy a seamless creative experience.
Main Features
Legendary Sound, Within Reach
Detachable Magnetic Keyboard System
Rich Modulation Sources, Infinite Possibilities
User-Friendly Modern Interface
Comprehensive I/O Configuration
Slim and Lightweight Design