DISCRETE DESIGN - Pure Analog Power
At the heart of the Prophet-6 are its two discrete voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) per voice, plus a sub-oscillator, a deliberate choice over chip-based digitally controlled oscillators (DCOs) used in some other Sequential models like the Prophet Rev2. Discrete VCOs, built with individual analog components, deliver a warmer, more organic tone with subtle imperfections that give the Prophet-6 its character. This design harkens back to the Prophet-5’s raw analog vibe, offering continuously variable waveshapes (triangle, sawtooth, and pulse with variable width) for a versatile tonal palette. This commitment to discrete VCOs results in a punchy, lively sound that shines in everything from lush pads to gritty leads.
The signal path remains fully analog, with two discrete filters per voice: a 4-pole resonant low-pass filter inspired by the Prophet-5 and a 2-pole resonant high-pass filter. These filters, combined with voltage-controlled amplifiers, allow for sculpting sounds with precision, from creamy to aggressive tones. The Poly Mod section, an enhanced version of the Prophet-5’s modulation routing, lets oscillator 2 and the filter envelope modulate multiple destinations, adding dynamic timbral shifts that make the Prophet-6 a sound designer’s dream.
ECHO AND REVERB INCLUDED - Enhancing the Analog Experience
The inclusion of a dual effects section—featuring 24-bit, 48 kHz digital reverbs, delays (standard and bucket-brigade emulation), chorus, phase shifter, and a 100% analog stereo distortion—was a strategic move to make the Prophet-6 stage- and studio-ready. Unlike the all-analog Prophet-5, which relied on external effects, Sequential integrated these to provide instant access to polished, professional sounds.
The effects are true bypass, preserving the analog signal path when disengaged, a nod to purists. Reverbs (room, hall, plate, spring) and delays add depth and space, ideal for ambient textures or rhythmic sequences, while the analog distortion brings grit for aggressive leads. Personally I’ve appreciated the builtin effects, they’re easy to bypass but I rarely do. Sometimes I like to use the Bricasti reverb-spaceship to process the P-6 but usually the stock effects get me to a lush and beautiful sound which fulfills my sonic vision.
ONLY 4-OCTAVE KEYBOARD - A Point of Contention For Some Classical Players
The Prophet-6’s 4-octave (49-key), semi-weighted keyboard is a premium model, with velocity and aftertouch, though it has drawn criticism for its limited range compared to the 5-octave keyboard of the Prophet-5. Compared to lower cost instrument keyboards I’ve always liked the P-6 feel and springiness. For some players, especially those crafting complex, multi-octave compositions, the 4-octave span feels restrictive, forcing more frequent octave transpositions during performance. I’ve appreciated the more compact 4-octave keyboard as I tend to pack my studio full of gear options to inspire new adventures.
Sequential’s choice likely prioritized portability and cost, as a 5-octave keyboard would increase size, weight, and price. The semi-weighted keys strike a balance between playability and responsiveness, with aftertouch offering expressive control over parameters like filter cutoff or LFO amount. While the keyboard is well-built and satisfying for most studio and gigging needs, players needing broader range may prefer pairing the Prophet-6 Desktop Module with a larger controller.
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| Desktop version of Prophet-6 (it's not Eurorack though) |
SUCCESS - A Synth for the Ages
Since its debut, the Prophet-6 has been a commercial and critical success, cementing Sequential’s return to prominence under Dave Smith’s reclaimed brand (thanks to Yamaha in 2015). Priced at around $2,800 initially, it found a sweet spot between boutique analog synths and more affordable digital options, appealing to professional musicians, producers, and enthusiasts. Its warm, versatile sound has made it a staple in genres from electronic and pop to film scoring. Reverb reviews consistently praise its organic tone and ease of use, with users calling it “the best synth ever” for its character and preset inspiration. However, the used market has softened due to competition from newer models like the Sequential Prophet-5 (2020), causing some price depreciation for secondhand units. Still, the Prophet-6 remains a go-to for those seeking authentic analog synthesis with modern reliability.
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT - Built for Portability
The Prophet-6 measures 32.3” W x 12.7” D x 4.6” H (81.3 x 32.3 x 11.7 cm) and weighs 20.75 lbs (9.5 kg), making it compact and light enough for gigging musicians or studio setups with limited space — Its solid wood end panels and metal chassis exude quality.
LIKES: What Makes It Shine
- Sound Quality: The discrete VCOs and filters deliver a warm, organic tone that’s both vintage and modern, excelling in pads, basses, and leads.
- Intuitive Interface: The knob-per-function panel eliminates menu diving, making sound design immediate and inspiring.
- Polyphonic Sequencer and Arpeggiator: The 64-step sequencer (up to 6 notes per step) and versatile arpeggiator (with up, down, random modes) are creative powerhouses, syncable to MIDI clock.
- Preset Memory: 500 factory and 500 user presets across 10 banks provide instant inspiration and flexibility.
- Build Quality: Sturdy construction and responsive keys ensure durability for studio and stage.
DISLIKES: Room for Improvement
- 4-Octave Keyboard: The limited range can frustrate players needing more octaves, a common critique in reviews.
- Reverb Quality: The onboard reverb lacks the lushness of dedicated units, pushing some users toward external effects.
- Sub-Oscillator Limitations: The triangle-wave sub-oscillator can feel boomy rather than punchy, as noted in Reddit discussions, often leading users to detune a main oscillator instead.
- No CV Inputs: Modular enthusiasts miss analog control voltage options.
- Rising Price: Originally $2,800, new units now retail closer to $3,499 due to inflation and demand, pricing out some buyers.
RISING PRICE: A Premium Investment
The Prophet-6’s retail internet price has climbed from $2,800 in 2015 to $3,499 in 2025, reflecting inflation, component costs, and its premium (made in San Francisco) status. Sequential’s focus on quality justifies the cost for many, though it’s a stretch for hobbyists. Used units on Reverb can be found for $1,800–$2,500, but prices fluctuate with market trends.
EPILOGUE
The Sequential Prophet-6 is a triumph of analog synthesis, blending the Prophet-5’s soul with modern enhancements like discrete VCOs, a robust effects section, and a user-friendly interface. Tom Oberheim's SEM made discrete VCO's a thing for me, this feature along with the creamy sound made the Prophet-6 an easy purchase decision. (Side note: I bought a Moog Voyager at the same time and later, wished I'd skipped the Voyager, it had a wonderful sound but the terrible operating system was always problematic and led to it being sold off.) The Prophet-6 has always been fun to play and explore creating sounds.
Its warm, versatile sonic character and creative tools make it a studio favorite, despite gripes about the 4-octave keyboard and rising cost. For those seeking a premium analog polysynth, the Prophet-6 delivers unmatched sounds and inspiration, proving Dave Smith’s vision remains as relevant as ever.
Thanks for reading High on Technology, Good Music To You!
©July 2025 by Mark King, it’s not ok to copy or quote without written permission from the author.
Consider getting out in the sun, getting inspired and doing something creative. . . . . .
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| Sequential Prophet-6 Keyboard |
