Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 8M – 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer

Desktop wavetable synthesizer module with 8-voice polyphony, 2-part multitimbrality, 3 DCOs per voice, linear FM, mod matrix, sampler, sequencer, arpeggiator, FX, USB, and MIDI.

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 8M – 8-Voice Desktop Synthesizer

OVERVIEW

The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave 8M is a streamlined desktop synthesizer that delivers the same powerful sound engine and premium build quality as the flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave models, but in a compact, 8-voice format. Designed for producers, composers, and performers who want maximum sonic versatility without sacrificing space, the 8M offers bi-timbral operation, a larger display for deep sound design, and a performance-oriented control set.

Fully patch-compatible with the 24K and 24M models, the 3rd Wave 8M integrates seamlessly into any studio or live setup and provides a cost-effective entry point into the 3rd Wave ecosystem. With advanced wavetable synthesis, lush analog filters, and flexible sequencing options, the 8M combines classic digital heritage with modern sound-shaping power.

Classic Legacy, Modern Sound

Inspired by iconic digital wavetable synthesizers of the past, the 3rd Wave 8M pushes the concept into the modern era. Its three high-resolution oscillators per voice deliver rich wavetables, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling capabilities. The instrument features a punchy Dave Rossum–designed 2140 analog low-pass filter with variable saturation, plus a versatile SEM-style state-variable filter (low-pass, high-pass, notch, and band-pass). Both filters can be run in series for harmonically complex and evolving textures.

KEY FEATURES

• Full 3rd Wave sound engine with 8 voices of polyphony

• Three high-resolution oscillators per voice for wavetables, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling

• Bi-timbral architecture with two independent parts for layering and splits

• Seamless patch compatibility with flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave models (24K and 24M)

• Dual analog filter design:

  • Dave Rossum–designed 2140 low-pass filter with variable saturation

  • SEM-style state-variable filter (LP, HP, notch, band-pass)

• Performance-oriented interface with expressive controls and a larger, intuitive display

• Sequencer: 24 sequences per preset, two parts per sequence, up to 32 measures each

• Four balanced TRS outputs for flexible studio and live integration

• Compact desktop form factor, perfect for touring or space-conscious studios

TECHNICAL SPECS

• Polyphony: 8 voices

• Oscillators: Three per voice (wavetable, analog-style, FM, sampling)

• Waveforms: Sine, saw, triangle, supersaw, pulse, white noise, pink noise

• Sequencer: 24 sequences per preset, 2 parts per sequence, up to 32 measures

• Filters:

  • 2140 analog low-pass with variable saturation

  • SEM-style state-variable (LP, HP, notch, band-pass)

• Parts: 2 (bi-timbral)

• Inputs: 1/4-inch TRS

• Outputs: 4 × 1/4-inch TRS balanced

• MIDI: In, Out, Thru, USB

• Format: Desktop synthesizer

• Signal Path: Digital with analog filtering