Built on a 500 MIPS processor platform (500 million instructions per second), the ION offers continuously variable wave shapes, plus sync and FM synthesis. 16 filter types are included, along with two LFOs, Sample & Hold, and an Arpeggiator—all of which sync to MIDI clock. The ION has 8-voice polyphony with 3 oscillators per voice, and is 4-part multi-timbral. A powerful and intuitive modulation matrix is built in, as well as a 40-band vocoder that does not use up any polyphony.
The ION features an ergonomic user interface with 3 variably-illuminating control wheels and 31 amply spaced control knobs. The knobs are 360 degree potentiometers with 12-bit resolution, yielding 32 times the resolution of a typical MIDI controller, yet still compatible with the latest sequencers via NRPNs (Non-Registered Parameter Numbers). The result is extraordinary precision—void of any undesirable digital artifacts—and a very “analog” sound throughout the entire frequency range.
A 160×160 graphic display provides instant visual feedback as a parameter is edited. The ION keyboard contains 49 velocity-sensitive keys, 4 analog outputs and 2 stereo analog inputs (all balanced and using 24-bit conversion), 4 individual insert effects, a stereo master multi-FX processor, and a Vocoder.
Developed by a world-class sound design team, many of whom programmed the flagship Andromeda synthesizer, the ION’s 512 user-rewritable presets cover a variety of genres, including many exciting new tonalities, as well as classic synth emulations.