The wait is over: Groove Synthesis’ latest creation, the 3rd Wave 8M desktop synthesizer, has officially landed in stores. With its eight voices of polyphony, bi-timbral flexibility, and the same core engine as the flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave keyboard, the new $1,999 unit is designed to bring the company’s sought-after sound to a wider audience.
First unveiled in May, the 8M has been a hot topic among producers, composers, and live performers eager for a more compact version of Groove Synthesis’ powerhouse wavetable instrument. While smaller in footprint, it doesn’t skimp on features: users still get three oscillators per voice with wavetable, virtual-analog, FM, and sampling options, all running through analog filters and premium output stages. The result is the same expansive, warm sound that helped the 24-voice versions earn their reputation.
Groove Synthesis co-founder Bob Coover describes the 8M as a way to deliver the essence of the 3rd Wave experience without compromise. “The 8M gives you access to the full potential of the 3rd Wave family in a more compact and attainable package,” he says. “Whether you’re producing, performing live, or diving deep into sound design, the 8M is only limited by your imagination.”
Physically, the desktop module pares back the keyboard layout but makes up for it with a large 7-inch screen and six context-sensitive encoders, giving quick access to the instrument’s deep programming architecture. Connectivity includes four balanced outputs along with DIN and USB MIDI, ensuring smooth integration into both studio rigs and stage setups.
Andrew Silverman, also a co-founder, points out that nothing has been cut from the sonic core of the instrument: “The 8M goes just as deep as the 24-voice flagship models. They are made with the same audio signal chain and have the same capabilities. The response from early users has been great—we hope a whole new audience will be creating sounds with the 3rd Wave’s powerful synthesis engine.”
For those ready to get hands-on, the 3rd Wave 8M is shipping now through select dealers worldwide. U.S. pricing comes in at $1,999, and availability can be checked via Groove Synthesis’ dealer locator
