PWM announces Mantis as the successor to the OSCar, with version 2 update featuring authentic waveforms from the iconic synth.
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The PWM Mantis V2, released in August 2025, is a significant update to the popular synthesizer that now positions it as the "next generation" of the legendary OSCar. This hybrid instrument, combining digital oscillators and analogue filters, offers a unique blend of modern technology and classic design.
The Mantis V2 update introduces four-voice polyphony, allowing up to 16 oscillators to be active simultaneously, each voice featuring two oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and a detune oscillator. This expansion in polyphony retains the synth's monophonic and duophonic modes, ensuring versatility for various musical styles.
One of the key features of the Mantis V2 is the integration of nine original wavetables from the OSCar synthesizer. These distinctive waveforms, such as 'Organ', 'Harpsichord', 'Double Pulse', and 'Strong Lead', add a rich, classic sound to the Mantis, reinforcing its heritage and sonic identity.
The Mantis, co-created by Paul Whittington and Chris Huggett, is a spiritual successor to the EDP Wasp and OSC OSCar. Huggett, an influential British synth designer and engineer, worked on the Mantis before his passing in 2020. His contributions to the original OSCar are evident in the Mantis V2, as it continues to feature a multimode VCA filter, an arpeggiator within 6 octaves, auto glide mode, ring modulator, and auto clock sync.
As a promotional bonus, customers who purchase the Mantis by August 31, 2025, receive the GForce impOSCar3 software synth for free. This software further extends the OSCar connection, offering a wide range of additional sounds.
The Mantis V2 measures 620x320x110mm and weighs 5.3kg. It features 37 full-sized velocity-sensitive keys, MIDI In/Out/Thru, sustain and controller pedal connection, USB-C to Host, and stereo line output and headphone output. With up to 200 sounds, including 100 factory presets and 100 user presets, the Mantis V2 offers a wealth of creative possibilities for musicians.
In summary, the V2 firmware update transforms the PWM Mantis synth into a polyphonic hybrid that honours and extends the heritage of the OSCar by integrating its original waveforms and the conceptual input from Chris Huggett. This modern instrument, deeply rooted in classic design and sound, provides musicians with a versatile tool for creating unique and captivating music.
[1] PWM Mantis V2 Official Press Release [2] PWM Mantis V2 User Manual [3] Interview with Paul Whittington on the Development of the PWM Mantis V2
The PWM Mantis V2, equipped with numerous gadgets by contemporary technology, delivers a harmonious amalgamation of modern and classic synth elements, reinforcing its ancestry and unique sonic identity. Musicians can expand their creative possibilities with the Mantis V2, as it offers advanced technology to complement its vintage allure.
