Groove Synthesis have announced that the long-awaited eight-voice desktop version of their PPG-inspired polysynth is now available to purchase worldwide. Initially announced at Superbooth 2025 back in May, the latest addition to the 3rd Wave family boasts the same sound engine as its larger siblings, but comes in at a more affordable price thanks to a reduced voice count and a simplified top panel.
Along with the full sound engine, the 3rd Wave 8M features bi-timbral operation, and also offers patch compatibility with the 24-voice models. Each of its voice includes three oscillators capable of wavetable synthesis, virtual-analogue, linear FM and sampling, all of which are processed by individual premium analogue filters and output stages that Groove Synthesis say deliver the warm, expansive character that defines their sound.
"We believe in creating instruments that inspire your next groove. The 8M gives you access to the full potential of the 3rd Wave family in a more compact and attainable package, without any compromise to the premium sound quality or synthesis options. Whether you're producing, performing live or diving deep into sound design, the 8M is only limited by your imagination." - Bob Coover, Co‑Founder, Groove Synthesis
Its streamlined desktop format focuses on performance-oriented controls and sports a larger seven-inch display than its 24-voice counterparts, which is joined by six context-sensitive encoders that allow for intuitive, hands-on access to the instrument’s deep sound-design capabilities. As for connectivity, the instrument is equipped with four balanced outputs on quarter-inch TRS sockets, along with MIDI I/O via both DIN and USB.
SOS Review
We’ve already had our hands on the 3rd Wave 8M — to find out more about what it’s capable of, you can read our in-depth review in the September 2025 issue of SOS.
"The 8M goes just as deep as the 24 voice flagship models. They are made with the same audio signal chain and have the same capabilities. The response from early users has been great — with the 8M, we hope a whole new audience will be creating sounds with the 3rd Wave’s powerful synthesis engine and coming up with fresh new ideas." - Andrew Silverman, Co‑Founder, Groove Synthesis
Pricing & Availability
The 3rd Wave 8M is available now worldwide, priced at $1999£1779 including VAT.
