Black Corporation Xerxes MKII
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Black Corporation
Xerxes MKII
Product Info
Article Number:
567581
Brand:
Black Corporation
Model:
Xerxes MKII
Category:
Sound Modules
Price:
$5,828.90
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The Xerxes MKII is a seriously impressive analogue voice module, delivering a warmth and character that’s hard to find these days. It’s perfect for sound designers, composers, and players who crave authentic analogue synthesis and are willing to invest in a premium-priced tool. Expect a lot of sonic depth and a tactile, engaging experience.
Product Description
- Black Corporation Xerxes MKII
- 8-Voice Analogue Synthesiser
- Two DCOs per voice with triangle
- sawtooth
- rectangle and pulse
- Adjustable pulse width
- Switchable ring modulator
- Adjustable oscillator drift
- Noise generator
- Analogue multimode filter (low-pass
- band-pass
- high-pass)
- Two ADSR envelopes
- Two synchronisable LFOs with 6 waveforms and assignable modulation destinations
- Completely reworked VCA section
- Switchable analogue BBD chorus
- Full MIDI control and processing of polyphonic aftertouch and MPE
- 1408 Preset memories
- OLED display
- USB port
- MIDI In
- Out & Thru
- Balanced stereo audio output: 2x 6.3 mm jacks
- USB audio interface
- Dimensions: 483 x 178 mm (19" / 4 U)
- Incl. external power supply unit
PROS
- • Exceptional DCO warmth, avoids typical digital sterility.
- • Reworked VCA delivers significant dynamic range improvement.
- • Flexible modulation matrix fosters complex, evolving sounds.
- • Robust build quality; feels solid and built to last.
CONS
- • High-end price point places it out of reach for many.
- • Limited preset recall compared to some software solutions.
- • Physical size demands significant rack space.
Product Video
Key Features
Sounds
Rich, analogue tones with a distinct vintage character, leaning towards classic synth sounds.
Polyphony
8-voice polyphony provides ample resource for pads, leads, and complex textures.
Effects
Built-in analogue BBD chorus adds a classic, warm dimension; ring modulator offers experimental possibilities.
MIDI
Full MIDI control including polyphonic aftertouch and MPE support for expressive performance.
Connections
Balanced stereo outputs, USB audio interface, comprehensive MIDI ports for flexible integration.
Weight
Approximately 12kg (26.5 lbs) – a substantial unit requiring careful handling.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The adjustable drift allows for subtle detuning or more pronounced instability, adding a vintage feel or creating evolving textures, but it's not as extreme as some deliberately unstable designs.
Yes, the OLED display offers good contrast and brightness, easily visible even in low-light environments, though brightness adjustment would be a welcome addition.
While excellent, the filter's resonance and character are distinct from the classic Moog sound; it's more nuanced and less aggressive, offering a different sonic palette.
