MÕNAI is a portable hardware synthesizer standalone unit is four part multi-timbral and includes multiple sequencers, effects and performance controls.
The synthesizer features four sound engines, including virtual analog and FM synthesis, allowing for diverse audio creation. VOID9 aims to enhance functionality by releasing an SDK so developers can create custom sequencers or chord generators, and possibly even additional engines.
The device is enclosed in a durable aluminum-milled case and operates with a custom 29-key silent keyboard with plans to incorporate velocity sensitivity. There are two touch strip sliders, a joystick, and an innovative inertial measurement unit for motion-based modulation. Connectivity options include MIDI, USB, CV, plus two stereo outputs.
We’re opening MÕNAI to developers. The MÕNAI SDK, planned for Q2 2026, will let you create custom extensions that run directly on the hardware – no computer required.
Note Effects: Design sequencers, non-traditional rhythm generators, custom arpeggiators, or simpler utilities like chord generators. Your code processes MIDI data in real-time, transforming musical input before it reaches the synthesis engine.
Custom Interfaces: Create visual feedback and control layouts tailored to your extensions. The graphics API provides vector drawing primitives, with the same commands working identically in the simulator and on hardware. Design interfaces that respond to the 8 encoders, touch strips, joystick, and keyboard.
Audio Generators and Effects (coming later): Future SDK releases will expose audio-rate processing, letting you build custom oscillators, filters, and effects that integrate seamlessly with MÕNAI’s signal path.
The developer discusses this synth with Nick at the Audio Developers Conference.
User Interface
52 keys
29 piano keyboard layout keys (2 octaves and 1/3)
23 function keys
8 endless potentiometers
2 touch-sensitive strips
Modulation (left, 8cm)
Multi-function (right, 20cm)
2-axis joystick for expression parameter control
6-axis motion sensor
Volume control knob with audio level indicator strip
High-resolution 3.1″ LCD screen
Total of 109 LEDs: 88 RGB and 21 single-color LEDs
2 microphones for audio recording
1 USB port for battery charging and computer connection
1 USB Host port for device connection (e.g., MIDI keyboard)
Line-level audio input
Headphone and line-level audio outputs
3.5mm TRS MIDI input and output
Pedal input
CV outputs for connecting to other devices
CV Pitch
CV Modulation
CV Velocity
CV Gate
They are planning to have a SDK interface to add higher level functionality, like sequencers, chord generators, generative functions, and such. Perhaps also new sound engines.
It will be a while before it is released. Late 2026 maybe ??
EDIT : Fixed typos, and gap in description. EDIT : Fixed synth’s name.
Open software and an SDK interface may be quite different. Think of the SDK on the Korglogue SDK which provides an API framework which runs under a proprietary software system.
Something like Pure Data, might be a nice option for the MÕNAI too.
Motivations to do this can be varied, but i think this could be a way to approach crowd sourcing some of the development.
Dual USB-C. Finally somebody designs something while considering how you actually use it in the real world (waits to be shown earlier examples of dual USB-C)!
