BALSAM

BALSAM'S FIRST RUN HAS SHIPPED!
A small new batch will go on sale this summer. Join the mailing list for first access and the on-sale date.

BALSAM is an 8-voice modal synthesizer which allows players to pitch bend and manipulate voices using an array of sliders. A reimagining of the classic polysynth, BALSAM encourages players to explore novel forms of harmonic, timbral, and rhythmic expression.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does BALSAM cost? +

BALSAM's retail price is $2249 USD. For customers in Europe and the UK, pricing will be set by our distribution partner and may vary by region.

How can I get one? +

A small batch will go on sale this summer, followed by a larger presale and production run.

North America: Units will be sold directly through the GLX webstore.

Europe & UK: BALSAM is distributed by partners Alex4, who supply retailers and shops across the EU and UK.

Elsewhere: For now direct sales are limited to North America; Europe is served through Alex4. We hope to widen the map for future runs.

Exact on-sale dates will go out to the mailing list before anything is public.

FEATURE LIST

8-VOICE VIRTUAL-ANALOG POLYPHONY (DIGITAL)
STEREO ANALOG STATE VARIABLE TONE FILTER
STEREO ANALOG VCA
LFO + MOD MATRIX + MOD ENVELOPES
SLIDERTRACKED / KEYTRACKED MODULATION SECTION
SLIDERTRACKED STEREO PANNING
GLIDE + VISCOSITY W/ INDIVIDUAL OSCILLATOR ARTICULATION
MIDI POLYPHONIC EXPRESSION OUTPUT
8-CHANNEL POLYRHYTHM SEQUENCER
USB-C MIDI IN / OUT
5-PIN MIDI IN / OUT
3.5MM ANALOG CLOCK SYNC IN / OUT
EXPRESSION PEDAL INPUT
EXTERNAL AUDIO INPUT
L/R LINE OUTS + HEADPHONE OUT
JUST AND EQUAL INTONATION MODES
BROWSER-BASED TUNING / SETTINGS / FIRMWARE UPDATER

TESTIMONIALS

"Not only does this synth provide a plethora of inspiring sounds and textures, it encourages me to explore music in new ways. BALSAM both simplifies and widens (yes it’s stereo) my sonic horizons- simple enough for anyone to stumble upon something magical and unique enough for fellow synth freaks to feel that old familiar rush. I love the core intention and idea behind it and been using it in sessions ever since I got my hands on it. 10/10"

- Magic Al

"Mid-2022, Matthew generously let me borrow a proto version of this synth he built out in Durham. Its wonderfulness will keep you up all night and inspire composition like a tuned piano in a good room does."

- Drake Ritter

ABOUT

GLX Audio workshop and office in Durham, NC

GLX is a boutique electronic instrument manufacturer based in Durham, North Carolina. The company is run by designer and musician Matthew O'Connell and a rotating cast of contributors.

FRIENDS OF GLX

MIKE NEWINS // MAKE NICE

CONTACT

MAILING LIST

STAY INFORMED

Join the mailing list for news on BALSAM availability.