Soma Laboratory ENIGMA

Synthesizer fully controlled by the position and movement of metallic objects

• Experimental synthesizer controlled by metallic objects
• Interface sensitive to the movement and position of objects
• Unconventional synthesis developed by SOMA Laboratory
• MIDI Clock, MIDI Notes and CV Clock Eurorack compatibility
• Eight touch sensors for different operating modes
• Support for MIDI and CV synchronization
• Stereo output with dedicated headphone output
• Unique sound experience geared toward creative exploration

Born out of natural human curiosity about the unknown, SOMA Laboratory ENIGMA is an experimental synthesizer that completely redefines the concept of sound interaction. Through an innovative sensing surface developed by SOMA, any metal object placed on the interface is transformed into a dynamic and unpredictable sound source.

Coins, screws, gears, tools or small metal fragments become expressive tools capable of generating ever-changing textures, drones, rhythms and soundscapes. The sensitivity of the system is extremely high: even the slightest movement of an object can radically alter the sonic result.

SOMA ENIGMA: sound exploration without limits

ENIGMA does not use traditional synthesis methods. Its sonic behavior arises from the relationship between the position, movement, and spatial arrangement of metal objects on the sensing surface. Each configuration creates a unique sound response, transforming the musician into a true explorer of unknown sound territories.

The control interface functions as a detection field capable of identifying the presence of metals both in contact with the surface and up to about 20 mm away. This enables highly expressive performances and a completely different performance approach than conventional synthesizers.

MIDI control and Eurorack synchronization

SOMA Laboratory ENIGMA integrates MIDI and CV Clock functions that allow integration with Eurorack modular setups, drum machines, sequencers, and DAWs. In specific operating modes, the synthesizer supports:

• MIDI Clock
• MIDI Start / Stop / Continue
• MIDI Notes
• MIDI Pitch Bend
• CV Clock compatible Eurorack

When MIDI Clock and CV Clock signals are present simultaneously, ENIGMA automatically assigns priority to the CV signal. The MIDI channel is automatically set when the first MIDI note is received after power on.

Touch interface and operating modes

Eight touch sensors allow you to call up different operating states and different "perceptual modes" of the sound field. Some modes also allow for tracking and storing gestures over time, further expanding the performative and experimental possibilities of the instrument.

ENIGMA does not use randomness in interface behavior: given the same objects, position and sensor configuration, the sound behavior will always be identical and repeatable.

Experimental design by SOMA Laboratory

Like all SOMA Laboratory instruments, ENIGMA is designed to encourage discovery, improvisation, and experimentation. Much of the instrument's operation is deliberately left to the musician's personal exploration, turning each session into a unique creative experience.

ENIGMA is not simply a synthesizer, but a sound research tool dedicated to composers, sound designers, experimental performers, and artists interested in new paradigms of musical interaction.

Technical Specifications.

• Type: experimental synthesizer controlled by metal objects
• Interface sensitive to the presence and movement of metals
• Touch sensors: 8
• MIDI input: DIN5
• MIDI Clock, MIDI Notes and Pitch Bend support
• CV Clock input: 3.5 mm Eurorack compatible
• CV Clock range: 3.3V - 20V
• Audio outputs: 6.3 mm stereo
• Headphone output: 3.5 mm
• Automatic mono output with single jack connected
• Power supply: DC +12V positive center
• Power consumption: 100mA
• Maximum line output signal: 18V peak-to-peak
• Dimensions: 340 x 320 x 40 mm
• Weight: 2 kg
• Power supply included
• Performance metal objects not included