"PWM deems Mantis a successor to the iconic OSCar synthesizer, with version 2 update incorporating authentic wavetables from the legendary instrument"
The PWM Mantis V2 is a hybrid synthesizer that pays homage to the legacy of the late British synth designer Chris Huggett, who worked on the Mantis before his passing in 2020. Co-created by Huggett and Paul Whittington, the Mantis is often referred to as a "spiritual successor" to the iconic EDP Wasp and OSCar synths, carrying forward their unique sonic characters[1].
The Mantis V2, following PWM's acquisition of the OSCar brand, includes the original nine OSCar preset wavetables, such as 'Organ', 'Harpsichord', 'Double Pulse', 'Strong Lead', and the jagged 'High-Density' waveform, alongside standard waves (triangle, saw, pulse)[1][2]. This update firmly positions the Mantis as the "next generation of OSCar".
Key features of the Mantis V2 include:
- The synth now boasts four polyphonic voices, expanding from its initial duophonic state, with up to 16 oscillators in total (each voice now has 2 oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and a detune oscillator)[1][2].
- It has 37 full-size velocity-sensitive keys and offers up to 200 sounds, including 100 factory presets and 100 user presets[1].
- The Mantis V2 features dual OSCar filters, maintaining the sonic characteristics associated with Huggett's design ethos[2].
- It also offers 2 LFOs with various waveform options and an arpeggiator within 6 octaves, as well as an auto glide mode[3].
The Mantis V2 is currently available for £769 at Andertons, representing almost a 50% discount off the original RRP[4]. PWM is also offering a special package that includes a copy of GForce's impOSCar 3 plugin[5].
In sum, the PWM Mantis V2 is a modern instrument that bridges the heritage of the EDP Wasp's experimental innovation and the OSCar's distinctive wavetable hybrid synthesis through contemporary hardware and updated firmware, making it a fitting tribute to Huggett's influential work[1][2].
[1] PWM Mantis V2 product page: https://www.pwm-synth.com/products/mantis-v2 [2] PWM Mantis V2 review by Sound on Sound: https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/pwm-mantis-v2 [3] PWM Mantis V2 user manual: https://www.pwm-synth.com/media/files/manuals/Mantis_V2_User_Manual.pdf [4] Andertons Music Company: https://www.andertons.co.uk/pwm-mantis-v2 [5] PWM Mantis V2 Special Offer: https://www.pwm-synth.com/products/mantis-v2-special-offer
This hybrid synthesizer, the PWM Mantis V2, carries forward the unique sonic characters of the iconic OSCar synths, their legacy now integrated due to PWM's acquisition of the OSCar brand. Alongside standard waves, it includes the original nine OSCar preset wavetables, such as 'Organ', 'Harpsichord', and the jagged 'High-Density' waveform, which helps define the Mantis V2 as the "next generation of OSCar", a testament to advanced technology and modern gadget design.
