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The Phatty Is a Phave

31.12.69

The Little Phatty has been around for a spell — the original version was released in 2006. On this model, the Little Phatty Stage II, some key features have been updated (so excuse me while I geek out for a moment).

There’s a new arpeggiator that can be applied to any preset, with a selectable latch mode. The tempo of the arpeggiator can be set using tap-tempo, or by using the new MIDI clock sync feature that matches the rate of the arpeggiator or LFO with your other MIDI sequencers. If your world is strictly post-five-pin, there’s a MIDI-over-USB function. The addition of the USB port means the LP Stage II can also be used as a USB controller for whatever software you’re using. In my tests, I never had to install a driver.

Oh, and one other new feature here: all-black side plates have replaced the wood-clad design of yore. So it looks a little more “nouveau goth” than “British prog.”

Most of those updated features will probably only appeal to synth-heads or serious electronic musicians. To everyone else, all that really matters is what it sounds like when you turn it on and start playing it. And that’s where the Little Phatty really shines.

Source: Wired News