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The UNO Synth Pro Keyboard is a powerhouse of sound and features, an absolute gem for the price. Its three VCOs deliver a powerful tone that’s impressively clean and precise, though they can be tweaked to achieve more characterful imperfections, reminiscent of synths like the Model D. The user interface is wonderfully intuitive, with only four knobs yet every function is just a button press away.
While the envelopes might not be the snappiest out there, they’re perfectly functional for my needs. Programming sounds is a breeze, and the paraphony, though requiring occasional VCO tuning, feels true to its analogue roots. Thankfully, the automatic tuning is a huge time-saver. The mono and legato modes, on the other hand, are monstrous, delivering pure joy with every note.
The modulation matrix, despite some critiques I’ve read, is a pleasure to use. It’s quick and logical: select a slot, pick a source, a destination, and set the amount, all using the four knobs in order. The arpeggiator and sequencer are straightforward yet efficient, complete with copy-paste functionality for creating patterns in no time.
The build quality is great too, this thing is a tank! Its buttons are unexpectedly tactile, almost velvety and feel much better than those on more expensive units like the Push 2 or Behringer DeepMind. The knobs offer a satisfying resistance that’s leagues ahead of flimsier options like the Argon 8. Best of all, there’s no frustrating menu diving; every control is just a tap away.
The keybed, crafted by Italian company Fatar, is a standout feature. It’s responsive, comfortable, and includes aftertouch a rarity at this price point. With 37 keys, it’s the perfect size for a mono synth. Plus, the UNO Synth Pro’s full MIDI CC mapping opens up endless possibilities for controlling VSTs, means every button and knob can be assigned, rivaling much pricier options like the Sub 37.
The effects section is another highlight, with drive, chorus, delays, and reverb that elevate the mono sound into lush, almost stereo like territory. The quality here is unbelievable, even at the full retail price of £700, it’s worth every penny. And when I grabbed it on offer for £350? A steal.
Connectivity is superb, with USB, CV ins and outs, an audio input, and a provided power cable (though it also runs over USB). The compact design, with modulation wheels placed at the top, makes it both portable and practical without sacrificing accessibility.
Check out some videos on my YouTube channel I made with this synthesizer