Strengths
+ Wonderfully characterful and raw sound
+ Neat, knob-perfunction interface
+ Pairs very well with other modular/semimodular gear
Limitations
- Joystick implementation is slightly questionable
- No patchable utilities
- No sync/trigger for the LFO
Malevolent may be the debut release from new British outfit PWM, but it still arrives with substantial design pedigree. The analog electronics were developed alongside Bristol’s Future Sound Systems, and its design team includes ex-Focusrite, Avid, M-Audio and Roli names.
It’s described by its creators as a ‘pure analog semi-modular’, meaning that, while there are digital control elements and MIDI implementation, the sound engine is all-analog from start to finish. I’m often wary of instruments that boast analog purity for the sake of it, but Malevolent is a proudly old-school piece of instrument design that wears its gritty, retro heart on its sleeve.
Malware
Those retro-leanings are evident from the moment you take
