Aodyo Anyma Phi Reviews

I like this synth -

Context: I write this review after testing/investigating this synth for a few days only.

Quality in general, the build quality and the sound quality is very good.

Technical Quality / Engineering:

One common issue I found with a lot of the currently upcoming (mostly) ARM processor based instruments and FX devices is processor noise creeping into the signal path. I haven't found this so far in the Aodyo Anyma Phi.

It allows easily - and mot important reliably - monitoring the CPU load in real time while creating the sounds to avoid glitches due to overload. The processor is powerful enough and I haven't maxed it out so far.

I only found minor display issues with control software (MacOs Monterey) that probably will be fixed in a future update.

Sound Quality:

Both parts the physical-modelling sound engine and the analog-modelling sound engine sound very good. The oscillators have their own distinct colours (in a good way, it defines the instrument's own character)

Same for the filters.

Even the - in the digital realm notoriously difficult - reverb (when dealing with such limited computing powers) sound good. Due to it's audio input it also qualifies as a good multi FX unit for external instruments.

Features:

it is an extremely feature rich instrument so I will only mention a few that are special to this synth:

It can dynamically mix audio inputs with the synthesised sounds - including e.g. mapping the input sound to the envelopes and most other sound params. This opens up a rich space for live sound design.

There is a build in piezo transducer, that allows to use the case of the Anyma Phi e.g. as a physical percussion instrument by tapping it.

Handling:

It is a complex device and reading the manual helps understaning its potencial. The engineers and designers did a good job of translating the vast amount of controls to a relative simple interface with a few buttons. Especially for live/on stage sound manipulations. It's partially intuitive, and partially needs learning.

For sound designs from scratch I recommend the using the app.

Summary:

To me it is a device that immediately gets me inspired in creation. It convinces as well in sounds that aim for naturalistic imitations of acoustic instruments, analog synth sounds and for avanguard/experimental sound design. It is a musical instrument and as such it needs learning and studying it.

Minor nitpicks:

The control app could see a improvement in terms of readability and clarity.

Wishes left open:

A polyphonic version of this! I'd queue in line to get it :) and it would probably become my main instrument.