SX1000 by AudioThing

Overview

SX1000 is a faithful software emulation of the JEN SX1000, a rare Italian analog synthesizer released in 1978. Originally designed as an affordable, hands-on instrument, the SX1000 became known for its raw tone, simple architecture, and unmistakable analog character.

This plugin recreates the original circuit behavior in detail while extending the instrument with modern features that dramatically expand its creative potential.

Vintage Core with Modern Expansion

At its heart, SX1000 is based on a single-oscillator analog design capable of classic waveforms including saw, square, and pulse. The original architecture is preserved to maintain authenticity, but AudioThing has added a polyphonic mode, a sub-oscillator extending down to three octaves below the main pitch, and enhanced legato behavior.

These additions turn the originally monophonic instrument into a far more flexible synthesizer without losing its vintage identity.

Distinctive Filter and Modulation

The synth features a 24 dB per octave resonant low-pass filter with a strong, organic response and classic self-oscillation. Its character is bold and expressive, making it ideal for basses, leads, and evolving textures.

Modulation is handled by a flexible LFO capable of vibrato, tremolo, and filter modulation, alongside two ADSR envelopes dedicated to amplitude and filter shaping.

Characterful Noise and Sub-Oscillator

SX1000 includes a detailed emulation of the MM5837 digital noise source, a component shared with several iconic analog synthesizers. This noise generator adds a unique texture that can be enabled or disabled depending on the desired character.

The sub-oscillator, inspired by a classic hardware modification, significantly thickens the sound and opens up deeper bass and richer harmonic content.

Arpeggiator and Performance Features

While the original hardware lacked an arpeggiator, SX1000 integrates an expanded arpeggiator inspired by a classic polyphonic synthesizer. It offers multiple play modes, adjustable range, tempo sync, latch functionality, and chord modes, making it a powerful creative tool for rhythmic patterns.

These performance-oriented features transform SX1000 into a versatile instrument for both studio and live use.

Built-In Effects

To complement the synth engine, SX1000 includes a suite of four high-quality effects inspired by vintage hardware. The effects can be reordered freely, allowing for flexible sound design.

Included effects:

• Tape-style echo for warm, rhythmic delays
• Spring reverb for classic depth and ambience
• Wave folder for rich harmonic distortion
• BBD-based flanger for subtle to dramatic modulation

Modern Workflow and Platform Support

SX1000 supports all major plugin formats across macOS, Windows, Linux, and iOS. A resizable interface, preset system with randomization, and flexible routing make it practical for modern production environments while retaining a distinctly vintage sound.

Conclusion

SX1000 blends authentic late-1970s analog character with thoughtful modern enhancements. It offers a raw, expressive synthesizer that stays true to its origins while fitting seamlessly into contemporary music production workflows.