Erica Synths Resonant Filterbank: 10-Band Analog Filter & Compressor

TL;DR: Erica Synths has announced the Resonant Filterbank, a 10-band analog stereo filterbank that also functions as a multimode filter, spectral compressor, and no-input feedback instrument. With 20 independent LFOs, envelope followers, MIDI CC control, and a price of €660, it’s a versatile desktop unit for sound designers and synth enthusiasts.

• 10-band analog stereo filterbank with fixed frequencies from 29Hz to 11kHz at 17dB/decade slope, plus global resonance.
• Multimode filter, spectral analyzer, dynamic EQ/spectral compressor, and clocked modulation modes with 20 LFOs/envelope followers.
• Configurable feedback loops enable standalone use as a no-input feedback instrument or experimental sound generator.
• Full MIDI CC control over all parameters, 128 user snapshot presets with morphing, and a graphical display for Macro performance view.
• Available for preorder at €660, shipping from May 18; includes balanced 6.3mm I/O, footswitch input, MIDI DIN, and USB.

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What Is the Resonant Filterbank?

Erica Synths has done it again. The Latvian company, known for its willingness to push boundaries—from the Steampipe physical modeling synth to the Richie Hawtin-collaborated Bullfrog Drums—has announced the Resonant Filterbank. And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a 10-band analog stereo filterbank, but with enough extra features to make even the most jaded gearhead raise an eyebrow.

If you’re not familiar with filterbanks, think of them as a graphic EQ on steroids. Instead of sweeping through frequencies like a typical filter, you boost or cut fixed bands. Here, those bands are at 29Hz, 61Hz, 115Hz, 218Hz, 411Hz, 777Hz, 1.5kHz, 2.8kHz, 5.2kHz, and 11kHz, with a slope of 17dB/decade. A global resonance pot lets you dial in the wobble. It’s a classic tool for reshaping sounds, and Erica Synths has given it a modern twist.

More Than Just a Filterbank

At first glance, you might think, “Okay, a filterbank. Cool, but niche.” But Erica Synths has packed this box with surprises. The Resonant Filterbank can also function as a multimode filter, spectral analyzer, dynamic EQ (which acts like a spectral compressor), and even a clocked modulation mode that updates band values in sequence like sample-and-hold. That last one is particularly intriguing for creating oscillating stereo effects.

Under the hood, there are 20 independent LFOs and envelope followers, each assignable to any control parameter. That’s a lot of modulation potential for a desktop unit. The configurable feedback loops are where things get really interesting: you can use the Resonant Filterbank as a standalone instrument, “when played with various resonance settings,” or even as an experimental sound generator for no-input mixer-like setups. This reminds me of Body Synths’ just-announced Laboratory, but in a more accessible form factor.

Key Specs and Connectivity

The Resonant Filterbank is a desktop unit in the same form factor as Erica Synths’ other tabletop devices. On the connectivity front, you get balanced 6.3mm stereo inputs and outputs, a configurable footswitch input, and five-pin DIN MIDI in and out, plus USB for firmware updates and patch backup. The analog gain stage can boost signals by up to +24dB, so you can run a guitar through it—or, as I’m dreaming, an 808.

Control is digital, as indicated by the 128 slots of user snapshot preset memory. You can morph between snapshots, which is a fantastic feature for live performance. The graphical display shows all parameters, including a Macro view where you can configure sliders for simultaneous access or use the unit as a performance instrument. MIDI CC control covers every parameter, so you can automate fluid changes from a DAW or external controller.

Who Is It For?

This is for the sound designer who wants to reshape their palette with surgical precision, the live performer who needs hands-on control, and the experimentalist who loves feeding back into the void. If you own a modular system, a drum machine, or a synthesizer—or even a guitar—this will find a home. The ability to use it as a no-input feedback monster means it’s also a tool for those who create music from chaos.

At €660, it’s not cheap, but it’s competitive for what it offers. Compare it to standalone filterbanks from other manufacturers, and you’re getting a lot more than just sliders. The spectral compressor mode alone is worth exploring, especially for mastering or sound design work.

Market Context and Competition

Filterbanks are a niche but beloved tool. The Sherman Filterbank is the classic, but it’s a different beast—mono, aggressive, and more of a distortion unit. The Resonant Filterbank is stereo, more refined, and packed with digital control. Other options like the Moog MF-105M MuRF or the Doepfer A-127 are either out of production or modular-specific. Erica Synths is filling a gap with a modern, versatile, and affordable (relatively speaking) option.

Shipping is estimated to start on May 18, and preorders are open now. Given Erica Synths’ track record, I expect these to move quickly. If you’ve been eyeing a filterbank but wanted something with more flexibility, this might be your answer.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to figure out how to explain to my partner that a 10-band filterbank is a necessary addition to my studio coffee ritual. Wish me luck.