DivKid and the DMNO: A Synth with Swagger and Substance

In the world of synths, there’s always something new brewing, and this time it’s the DMNO by UDO, introduced by DivKid at Machina Bristronica 2025. This isn’t just your average polysynth; it’s a binaural, multitimbral wonder that’s as raw as a punk gig. George from UDO and Cuckoo join DivKid in what feels like a jam session of minds, dissecting every little quirk and feature of this beast. Unlike many of its predecessors, the DMNO promises more chaos and utility in the studio. It’s an instrument feeding on unpredictability and fun, rather than the sterile precision some might expect. As they dive into its creation, we learn about the challenges and triumphs of its development, painting a vibrant picture of what’s to come for synth aficionados. Let’s just say, it’s an exciting era for music making when you have a synth that might just bite back.

The DMNO is like that dodgy kebab you get after a big night out – you know it’s wild, slightly unpredictable, but oh so satisfying. DivKid, George, and Cuckoo peel back the layers of this audio onion, revealing a complex beast with two independent synth voices for splitting, stacking, and layering sounds. It’s what we’d call a palette cleanser, shaking things up like electronic monsters that roam uncharted sonic territories. Imagine two synths duking it out in chaotic harmony, leaving behind traditional, overly sweet tones in favour of something more rebellious.

The DMNO breaks away from its predecessors like the Super 6. While those felt more like a smooth whiskey, the DMNO is the equivalent of a vibrant craft beer, packed with gritty character. The inclusion of a phosphor VFD for display suggests we’re not just dealing with a synth here, but a piece of electronic art. It’s a delight for both ears and eyes, pulling you in deeper with its charms. It’s a world where synths are not just tools, but adventurers in a sonic landscape full of potential pitfalls and treasures. Anyone playing the DMNO is in for a ride that’s as crunchy as it is enlightening.

Simplicity breeds creativity, and the DMNO embraces this with just enough controls to entice and challenge. DivKid lays out the utility polyphonic features that drive this synth’s unique character. It’s a sandbox of musical possibilities, ready to be moulded by those who dare to explore it. Whether you’re after simple mono synth duties or something more expansive, the DMNO overstuffs its box, playing the role of both studio stalwart and experimental muse. This is where play-led creation shines, with DivKid emphasising the importance of hands-on exploration in discovering the synth’s true capabilities.

No manual reading nonsense here, because who reads those anyway? Trust your instinct, tweak a knob, and see what magic unfolds. It’s akin to searching for the perfect pint in a sea of ales. The blend of hands-on control and spontaneous sound shaping is truly where this synth comes into its own. It might be compact in size, but this little bugger packs a punch like no other, welcoming all tinkerers and knob twiddlers to get stuck in and embrace the madness. The DMNO is more than a piece of gear – it’s a trustee of creativity.

Finally, the discussion veers into what’s next for the DMNO as it transitions from development to the hands of the public. UDO’s George reveals plans to have the DMNO ready by early next year, but as with any good brew, the wait promises to be worth it. Priced at £2,599, it’s not an impulse buy, but a deliberate choice for those who embrace sonic adventure. This isn’t just a synth; it’s a statement piece for those who love getting their hands dirty with sound.

What’s clear is that the DMNO isn’t meant to replace the suave Super series but rather sit alongside it as its rebellious cousin. This synth doesn’t just encourage experimentation – it demands it. Whether you’re putting it through its paces like a raucous mosh pit or exploring its quieter corners, the DMNO offers something for everyone with a taste for the unruly.

George’s candid discussion of development challenges humanises the process, underscoring why instruments like these are not just mass-produced gadgets but labours of love. In a world where much of music tech is often polished and pristine, the DMNO stands out as a gritty testament to raw creativity and unfiltered sound, beckoning musicians to join it on its chaotic journey. The DMNO is a dive into a world where not knowing what’s next is part of the thrill and allure.