Kyra EN2023-08-18T15:49:07+02:00

Kyra is a powerful, hardware virtual analog synthesizer capable of creating a wide range of contemporary sounds for live and studio musicians.

From first glance it is patently obvious that Kyra is a beautifully-designed desktop VA Synthesizer — as the wording elegantly emblazoned on its eye-catching front fascia subtly states. As a truly multitimbral instrument it features eight independent ‘parts’ with up to 32 notes per PART, each effectively being a complete synthesizer with sound sources (OSC GROUP 1, OSC GROUP 2, SUB 1, and SUB 2); FILTERS; modulators (EGs, LFOs, and MOD MATRIX); multi-effects unit (EFFECTS); and a USB 2.0 connection — can exchange MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) information, as well as send the audio from each stereo PART to a computer as eight stereo 24-bit streams at 96kHz (with 48kHz downsample mode available) and one stereo audio return from the computer supporting a single 24-bit stereo audio stream from the host DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).

With that being said, the only other resource they share are the four balanced, stereo output pairs — OUT A (Right and Left), OUT B (Right and Left), OUT C (Right and Left), and OUT B (Right and Left) — using 32-bit DAC (Digital-to-Analogue Conversion) running at 96kHz sampling rate connected to four internal stereo busses and that powerful pool of 128 hardware voices. Versatility further abounds as each PART has a dedicated multi-effects unit comprising nine stereo effects modules — namely, three-band EQ, Formant filter, input Limiter, Distortion module, Delay module, six-state Phaser, Chorus flanger, Stereo reverb, and output Limiter — with dedicated audio stream via USB (Universal Serial Bus).

Patches
Better still, each PART hosts a Patch from the pool available to the system. Speaking of which, Kyra has a generous Patch storage capacity of 26 banks — A through to Z, each containing 128 patches. That’s a total of 3,328! The first seven banks are ‘user’ patches stored in RAM (Random Access Memory), meaning users can change them quickly and individually using the Store sequence. The remaining 19 banks are ROM (Read-Only Memory) patches that users can recall and use just like RAM patches but cannot be replaced using the Store sequence. It is, however, perfectly possible to freely copy whole banks between RAM and ROM, so all are user- programmable. And any Patch can be recalled via MIDI program changes and Bank select commands.

Oscillators
As a sensational synthesizer with a spectacular specification, Kyra has two primary virtual alias-free oscillator groups (OSC GROUP 1 and OSC GROUP 2) per voice, each with Saw (sawtooth); Wave (waveform) — with no fewer than 4,096 18-bit linear PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) 32x oversampled waveforms covering a huge range of synthetic and emulated sound sources with two wave sources per voice; Pulse; and noise simultaneously available. Also OSC GROUP 1 and OSC GROUP 2 each has an independent detune-able oscillator — SUB 1 and SUB 2 — with four selectable shapes and two selectable (Octave) pitches. Real Hard Sync, ring modulation, and FM (Frequency Modulation) are available between those oscillator groups.

Get this, though: switching from Wave mode — meaning Kyra adopts a virtual analogue synthesis model which has the advantage that it is easy to construct sounds using intuitive subtractive synthesis — to Hypersaw mode configures the voice to use a special algorithm comprising six real oscillators to quickly create lush-sounding soundscapes. Digging deeper, Hypersaw mode replaces Wave mode’s two oscillator groups with a single source whose tonal content is constructed with just two adjustable controls — Hypersaw Intensity and Hypersaw Spread (geometric detuning). Built entirely out of multiple, harmonically-rich sawtooth waves or ‘partials’ each adjusted to that special algorithm, the Hypersaw provides characteristic soundscapes ideal for a wide range of uses — from high-impact lead sounds through to lush, animated pads. Placed in Dual Mode, the Hypersaw has 12 real oscillator sources with an additional adjustable stereo spread.

Filter
Successfully synthesizing sound is inextricably linked with flexible filtering. Fortunately for discerning users, Kyra’s FILTERS front panel perfectly positions powerful control, creatively implementing accurate emulations of classic analogue ladder filters with 2-pole (12dB/octave) low pass (12dB LP), band pass (12dB BP), and high pass (12dB HP), plus 4-pole (24dB/octave) low pass (24dB LP), band pass (24dB BP), and high pass (24dB HP) configurations. Creatively, 128 filters are configurable for single or dual parallel (Dual Filter) true stereo operation.

Envelope and LFOs
Onwards and upwards, three fast-response ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelope generators with EG Slope setting are also at hand. Helpfully, one is assigned to the VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier), another to the filter, while the third can be freely assigned. All are available in the MOD MATRIX (modulation matrix), itself being a six-channel affair with up to three destinations per channel giving a maximum of 18 routings. It is also worth noting that the three LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) — with 128 waveforms, monophonic, polyphonic, random, anti-phase, and quadrature stereo phase settings — are also available in the MOD MATRIX and additionally as a MIDI clock sync source.

Arpeggiator
Creativity continues courtesy of an arpeggiator (ARP) on each PART with 128 preset patterns; Up, Down, Random, and Chords modes; and an ability to synchronise to MIDI clock. Arpeggiators are aimed at live performance, primarily, but can clearly complement composition. Kyra’s ARP is an integral part of a Patch, so settings are always stored.

Anschlüsse und Display

Display and Connections
Far from forgetting its helpful high-resolution 256×64 pixel graphic OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) display alongside the traditional array of MIDI In, Out, and Thru connections — complimenting USB 2.0 — on five-pin DIN, as well as full key microtuning capability with MIDI Tuning Standard (MTS support), it is fair to say that Kyra is, indeed, one of the most powerful music synthesizers ever built… a sensational synthesizer with a spectacular specification, set to take performances and compositions to higher states of musicality and sound design!

Kyra SE in sea blue

Kyra SE in sea blue

Kyra SE in sea blue

Specifications

Specifications

Sound engine

  • Virtual analog synthesis
  • 128 voices
  • 8 parts
  • All sound features can be used simultaneously for each part

Oscillators per voice

  • two Wave osc with 4096 waveforms.
  • two Pulse osc., two Saw osc., two Noise osc.
  • two Sub osc with several waveforms
  • Hard Sync
  • Hypersaw Mode
  • Oscillator FM and Ring mod
  • Oscillators are in two groups for better overview

Effects

  • 9 simultaneously available effects
  • 3 band EQ, Formant Filter, Input limiter, Distortion module, Delay module, 6 stage phaser, Chorus flanger, Stereo reverb, Output limiter

Modulators

  • 3 envelope generators (EG)
  • 3 LFOs with 128 shapes each
  • 6-slot Mod Matrix with multiple destinations per slot

Filters

  • 12/24db/octave with LP/BP/HP available
  • Two filters per voice and true stereo signal path available in Dual Mode

Extras

  • 26 patch banks (A to Z) with 128 slots each
  • 128 Multi configurations
  • Arpeggiator with 128 preset patterns
  • Octave/key transpose
  • Dual Mode: layers the same sound two times (which can be detuned against each other)
    and provides true stereo signal path, Dual Filters and stereo LFOs

Hardware

  • Sturdy full metal case
  • 256×64 pixel OLED
  • Kensington lock receptacle
  • VESA 75 recepticle on the bottom (mountable on monitor stand using the VESA standard)

Connections

  • USB 2.0 for MIDI and audio
  • 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru
  • 4 stereo, balanced, analog audio outputs plus stereo headphone output

Audio interface

  • Kyra can be used as an audio interface to stream a single stereo stream from your computer
  • Kyra can stream its 8 parts individually to your computer via USB in stereo at 24bit/96KHz (48KHz option)
  • USB MIDI and Audio 2.0 class complient – can be used with Mac OS and Windows (windows with supplied driver)

Sound engine

  • Virtual analog synthesis
  • 128 voices
  • 8 parts
  • All sound features can be used simultaneously for each part

Oscillators per voice

  • two Wave osc with 4096 waveforms.
  • two Pulse osc., two Saw osc., two Noise osc.
  • two Sub osc with several waveforms
  • Hard Sync
  • Hypersaw Mode
  • Oscillator FM and Ring mod
  • Oscillators are in two groups for better overview

Effects

  • 9 simultaneously available effects
  • 3 band EQ, Formant Filter, Input limiter, Distortion module, Delay module, 6 stage phaser, Chorus flanger, Stereo reverb, Output limiter

Modulators

  • 3 envelope generators (EG)
  • 3 LFOs with 128 shapes each
  • 6-slot Mod Matrix with multiple destinations per slot

Filters

  • 12/24db/octave with LP/BP/HP available
  • Two filters per voice and true stereo signal path available in Dual Mode

Extras

  • 26 patch banks (A to Z) with 128 slots each
  • 128 Multi configurations
  • Arpeggiator with 128 preset patterns
  • Octave/key transpose
  • Dual Mode: layers the same sound two times (which can be detuned against each other)
    and provides true stereo signal path, Dual Filters and stereo LFOs

Hardware

  • Sturdy full metal case
  • 256×64 pixel OLED
  • Kensington lock receptacle
  • VESA 75 recepticle on the bottom (mountable on monitor stand using the VESA standard)

Connections

  • USB 2.0 for MIDI and audio
  • 5-pin DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru
  • 4 stereo, balanced, analog audio outputs plus stereo headphone output

Audio interface

  • Kyra can be used as an audio interface to stream a single stereo stream from your computer
  • Kyra can stream its 8 parts individually to your computer via USB in stereo at 24bit/96KHz (48KHz option)
  • USB MIDI and Audio 2.0 class complient – can be used with Mac OS and Windows (windows with supplied driver)

Video

Video

Soundsets

Soundsets

Sound Demos

Sound Demos

Pictures

To download the product images in original size, simply click on the image to start the download

Kyra SE sea blue

Pictures

FAQ + Download Area

FAQ + Download Area

We answer your most frequently asked questions about Kyra
We answer your most frequently asked questions about Kyra
What’s the dimensions and measurements of Kyra?2022-09-30T14:32:53+02:00

Dimensions and Weight of Kyra:

  • Width: 440 mm
  • Depth: 305 mm
  • Height (including knobs): 85 mm
  • Total weight: 5.7 kg
How can I use Kyra as an audio interface?2022-09-30T14:39:20+02:00

Please refer to page of the manual at the chapter “System Configuration”. Kyra plays each of the Parts via USB to the computer in stereo. Also, Kyra can play back a stereo stream from the computer.

When I edit a Patch, I hear changes to the sound on a different Part to the one I’m using. What’s going on?2022-09-30T14:40:31+02:00

Please remember that when you change a Patch parameter (which includes Effects), you’re editing a Patch, not a Part. Different Parts can be based on the same Patch. If you have the same Patch loaded into another Part or Parts, the change will be heard immediately on all Parts that are configured to use that Patch.

If you don’t want this to happen, please make a copy of the Patch before you change it and load it into the Parts that should use the original Patch.

The specs on Kyra look impressive, can I really use everything simultaneously?2022-09-30T14:41:29+02:00

Kyra is based on an FPGA, a programmable logic array. This means that you can use all features of Kyra at the same time. So – yes, you can use ALL the oscillators, modulations, filters etc. simultaneously. You can go full throttle at all times. Good luck… and watch that you’re not getting knocked off your feet.

Kyra plays no audio on the analog outputs.2022-09-30T14:42:33+02:00

Perhaps you’ve activated Soundcard Mode. In this mode, Kyra will only play its own audio through USB. Please see the section “System configuration” in the manual on how to change this setting.

How do I power Kyra on and off?2022-09-30T14:44:38+02:00

Check if the power supply is connected and powered. Then press the two buttons near the power symbol, Octave Transpose <- and -> simultaneously for 2 seconds. Then, Kyra will power up within a few seconds.

To switch Kyra off, please press and hold both Octave Transpose buttons until Kyra powers down. Do not pull the power cable or disconnect mains power while Kyra is switched on as this can result in data loss.

Where can I find the download section and the manuals?2023-09-27T17:17:14+02:00

At the end of the FAQ list you will find the download links for this product.

Kyra isn’t recognized by my computer via USB connection2023-09-07T12:50:09+02:00

Windows users must install the Kyra driver first. You can find it in our download section.

Make sure that your device is connected to your computer directly and not through a hub.

Ensure you are using a USB 2.0 or above compatible port and cable.

Use the rear USB of your computer, not front USB connection.

Disconnect all other USB devices from your computer which aren’t needed at the moment.

Try a different USB cable, USB port or another computer.

On Mac: Click on About this Mac in the Apple menu. Select System Report. Go to the Hardware dropdown menu on the left and unfold it. Select USB. Check if your device is listed there.

On Windows: Press the Win key+R. Enter devmgmt.msc and press OK. Check if your device is listed there. If it shows up as an “Unknown Device” and if there’s a black and yellow warning sign, deinstall the driver. Then unplug the instrument, reboot your machine and plug it back in.

Which power supply can I use?2022-12-04T17:00:57+01:00

Please use only the provided power supply. If this didn’t come with your device, please contact your dealer.

The cable between the power supply and your power socket is a common “figure of eight” or C7 plug type. If you happen to have the EU version of the PSU but live outside the EU, you can just get the matching cable to connect it to your socket. The power supply is a wide-range type for every range and combination between 110-240V and 50-60Hz.

This device can’t be powered via USB.

What are the four holes on the bottom of the device for? Can I connect a VESA mount here?2022-12-04T19:59:21+01:00

Iridium and newer revisions of Kyra have a VESA 75 recepticle on the bottom, that’s the standard that TV supports have. Most VESA supports support two standards at once, one with 75mm and one with 100m distance between the middles of the holes. You will have to get one that has the holes for 75mm only, otherwise that won’t fit.

There should be Vesa mounts with an arm available that can be clamped to the edge of a table, so you can position the anywhere where the arm goes, as long as it’s stable. However, we can’t tell one exact model that fits. When choosing, make sure that this support can carry the weight of your instrument safely.

You will need M4 screws for the VESA holes. Important: The screws that you use for the VESA holes must not be longer than 8mm plus the thickness of the VESA mount. Otherwise, the screws may touch the components on the board which may lead to serious damage and/or injury.

The line output signal level on my device is very low or distorted or noisy.2023-09-27T17:43:14+02:00

Make sure that the necessary cables are connected properly and that the introduced signals are the correct type. Also, the device must be powered correctly.

If that and the other hints described on the FAQs do not help, please contact your dealer. In case your device is out of warranty, please use the support form at the bottom page.

I think I have to send my device in, how do I proceed? What do I have to do when I send my unit to Waldorf from outside the European Union?2023-09-27T17:10:04+02:00

First, make sure you’ve tried all the procedures above that are related to your issue.

If nothing helps and your device is still covered by warranty, please contact the retailer where this device has been bought.

All our devices come with 2 years of warranty. Depending on local law, some retailers only cover 1 year of warranty service. If your device has been bought more than one but less than two years ago, and your dealer refuses to do a warranty service repair, please contact the distributor for your area. You will find a list of them here: https://waldorfmusic.com/en/international-distributors

If your device is out of warranty, please, use the button in the upper right corner. Please, give a precise description of the error. If it’s really necessary to send in your unit, we will issue an RMA form.

Wrap up your device safely. Ensure that it’s padded at least 5cm/2inches in ALL directions all around. Use a sturdy cardboard box and parcel tape. Do not use gaffers tape as this often becomes detached during transport. You are responsible for transport damages that result in improper wrapping. Best if you use the original padding and box, then wrap up the device as it was when you received it.

Fill out the RMA form on your computer. Print it out, sign it and put it INSIDE the box. We reserve the right to refuse working on devices which come with no error description.

IMPORTANT: When sending in your device from outside the EU

All packages must have a proforma invoice stuck on the OUTSIDE of the box. This is important for the customs duty. The contents of the parcel must be named and described exactly on the invoice, with declaration of the date of purchase and condition of the unit.

We would recommend to describe your device as defective and mark the contents of the parcel at a total value of 25€ or less. Otherwise, there will be extra fees (tax) from customs duties which we must pass onto you. No tax will be charged for goods with a value less than 25 €. Keep in mind that in case the parcel gets lost, the insurance of the post service (if applicable) will only refund the value marked in the declaration.

If the above points are not considered, please be aware that we must charge you the extra costs which arise through customs duty for storage and the additional handling etc. This would be an amount between 60 – 100 Euro.

What’s the dimensions and measurements of Kyra?2022-09-30T14:32:53+02:00

Dimensions and Weight of Kyra:

  • Width: 440 mm
  • Depth: 305 mm
  • Height (including knobs): 85 mm
  • Total weight: 5.7 kg
How can I use Kyra as an audio interface?2022-09-30T14:39:20+02:00

Please refer to page of the manual at the chapter “System Configuration”. Kyra plays each of the Parts via USB to the computer in stereo. Also, Kyra can play back a stereo stream from the computer.

When I edit a Patch, I hear changes to the sound on a different Part to the one I’m using. What’s going on?2022-09-30T14:40:31+02:00

Please remember that when you change a Patch parameter (which includes Effects), you’re editing a Patch, not a Part. Different Parts can be based on the same Patch. If you have the same Patch loaded into another Part or Parts, the change will be heard immediately on all Parts that are configured to use that Patch.

If you don’t want this to happen, please make a copy of the Patch before you change it and load it into the Parts that should use the original Patch.

The specs on Kyra look impressive, can I really use everything simultaneously?2022-09-30T14:41:29+02:00

Kyra is based on an FPGA, a programmable logic array. This means that you can use all features of Kyra at the same time. So – yes, you can use ALL the oscillators, modulations, filters etc. simultaneously. You can go full throttle at all times. Good luck… and watch that you’re not getting knocked off your feet.

Kyra plays no audio on the analog outputs.2022-09-30T14:42:33+02:00

Perhaps you’ve activated Soundcard Mode. In this mode, Kyra will only play its own audio through USB. Please see the section “System configuration” in the manual on how to change this setting.

How do I power Kyra on and off?2022-09-30T14:44:38+02:00

Check if the power supply is connected and powered. Then press the two buttons near the power symbol, Octave Transpose <- and -> simultaneously for 2 seconds. Then, Kyra will power up within a few seconds.

To switch Kyra off, please press and hold both Octave Transpose buttons until Kyra powers down. Do not pull the power cable or disconnect mains power while Kyra is switched on as this can result in data loss.

Where can I find the download section and the manuals?2023-09-27T17:17:14+02:00

At the end of the FAQ list you will find the download links for this product.

Kyra isn’t recognized by my computer via USB connection2023-09-07T12:50:09+02:00

Windows users must install the Kyra driver first. You can find it in our download section.

Make sure that your device is connected to your computer directly and not through a hub.

Ensure you are using a USB 2.0 or above compatible port and cable.

Use the rear USB of your computer, not front USB connection.

Disconnect all other USB devices from your computer which aren’t needed at the moment.

Try a different USB cable, USB port or another computer.

On Mac: Click on About this Mac in the Apple menu. Select System Report. Go to the Hardware dropdown menu on the left and unfold it. Select USB. Check if your device is listed there.

On Windows: Press the Win key+R. Enter devmgmt.msc and press OK. Check if your device is listed there. If it shows up as an “Unknown Device” and if there’s a black and yellow warning sign, deinstall the driver. Then unplug the instrument, reboot your machine and plug it back in.

Which power supply can I use?2022-12-04T17:00:57+01:00

Please use only the provided power supply. If this didn’t come with your device, please contact your dealer.

The cable between the power supply and your power socket is a common “figure of eight” or C7 plug type. If you happen to have the EU version of the PSU but live outside the EU, you can just get the matching cable to connect it to your socket. The power supply is a wide-range type for every range and combination between 110-240V and 50-60Hz.

This device can’t be powered via USB.

What are the four holes on the bottom of the device for? Can I connect a VESA mount here?2022-12-04T19:59:21+01:00

Iridium and newer revisions of Kyra have a VESA 75 recepticle on the bottom, that’s the standard that TV supports have. Most VESA supports support two standards at once, one with 75mm and one with 100m distance between the middles of the holes. You will have to get one that has the holes for 75mm only, otherwise that won’t fit.

There should be Vesa mounts with an arm available that can be clamped to the edge of a table, so you can position the anywhere where the arm goes, as long as it’s stable. However, we can’t tell one exact model that fits. When choosing, make sure that this support can carry the weight of your instrument safely.

You will need M4 screws for the VESA holes. Important: The screws that you use for the VESA holes must not be longer than 8mm plus the thickness of the VESA mount. Otherwise, the screws may touch the components on the board which may lead to serious damage and/or injury.

The line output signal level on my device is very low or distorted or noisy.2023-09-27T17:43:14+02:00

Make sure that the necessary cables are connected properly and that the introduced signals are the correct type. Also, the device must be powered correctly.

If that and the other hints described on the FAQs do not help, please contact your dealer. In case your device is out of warranty, please use the support form at the bottom page.

I think I have to send my device in, how do I proceed? What do I have to do when I send my unit to Waldorf from outside the European Union?2023-09-27T17:10:04+02:00

First, make sure you’ve tried all the procedures above that are related to your issue.

If nothing helps and your device is still covered by warranty, please contact the retailer where this device has been bought.

All our devices come with 2 years of warranty. Depending on local law, some retailers only cover 1 year of warranty service. If your device has been bought more than one but less than two years ago, and your dealer refuses to do a warranty service repair, please contact the distributor for your area. You will find a list of them here: https://waldorfmusic.com/en/international-distributors

If your device is out of warranty, please, use the button in the upper right corner. Please, give a precise description of the error. If it’s really necessary to send in your unit, we will issue an RMA form.

Wrap up your device safely. Ensure that it’s padded at least 5cm/2inches in ALL directions all around. Use a sturdy cardboard box and parcel tape. Do not use gaffers tape as this often becomes detached during transport. You are responsible for transport damages that result in improper wrapping. Best if you use the original padding and box, then wrap up the device as it was when you received it.

Fill out the RMA form on your computer. Print it out, sign it and put it INSIDE the box. We reserve the right to refuse working on devices which come with no error description.

IMPORTANT: When sending in your device from outside the EU

All packages must have a proforma invoice stuck on the OUTSIDE of the box. This is important for the customs duty. The contents of the parcel must be named and described exactly on the invoice, with declaration of the date of purchase and condition of the unit.

We would recommend to describe your device as defective and mark the contents of the parcel at a total value of 25€ or less. Otherwise, there will be extra fees (tax) from customs duties which we must pass onto you. No tax will be charged for goods with a value less than 25 €. Keep in mind that in case the parcel gets lost, the insurance of the post service (if applicable) will only refund the value marked in the declaration.

If the above points are not considered, please be aware that we must charge you the extra costs which arise through customs duty for storage and the additional handling etc. This would be an amount between 60 – 100 Euro.

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