The Erica Synths PĒRKONS HD-01 is an exceptional hybrid percussion instrument that defies conventional categorization, seamlessly blending the characteristics of a drum machine, synthesizer, and drone instrument into a single powerful performance tool. Designed by Erica Synths, this instrument has been reimagined with a striking timelessly black finish that aligns with the company's signature dark aesthetic.
At its core, the PĒRKONS HD-01 features four sonically versatile hybrid voices, each combining a digital sound engine with an analogue multimode filter equipped with overdrive capabilities. This hybrid architecture delivers both the precision of digital synthesis and the warmth and character of analogue processing. Each voice offers three distinct sound engine modes and provides eight dedicated controls for detailed sound sculpting, enabling musicians to craft everything from classic drum sounds to experimental drones and textures.
The instrument's flexible architecture is built for both live performance and studio production. Each of the four voices includes a high-pass/band-pass/low-pass filter configuration, providing extensive tonal shaping possibilities. An internal BBD (bucket brigade device) emulation adds vintage-style delay and modulation effects, while a built-in compressor on the master output ensures cohesive, punchy mixes. All voice parameter configurations can be stored as KITS for instant recall during performances.
The PĒRKONS HD-01 features a comprehensive four-track sequencer with advanced programming capabilities. Each track offers four time divisions and four time multiplications, allowing for complex polyrhythmic patterns. Per-step ratchets and probability settings add organic variation and controlled randomness, while dedicated shuffle and groove settings for each track inject human feel and swing into programmed patterns.
Modulation capabilities are extensive, with a morphing waveform LFO that can be assigned to up to eight destinations per voice, enabling evolving, animated sounds. Parameter automation further enhances performance dynamics, allowing real-time control and expressive musical gestures.
Integration with external equipment is thoughtfully implemented throughout the design. Each voice includes a dedicated external trigger input for interfacing with other drum machines, sequencers, or modular systems. Individual voice outputs provide complete mixing flexibility, while individual FX sends and returns for each voice, plus master FX send and return, accommodate complex signal routing with external effects processors. All audio connections utilize professional 6.3mm jack sockets. MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports with extensive MIDI implementation ensure seamless integration with DAWs, controllers, and other MIDI-equipped instruments.
The instrument offers substantial storage capacity with 64 kit memories and 64 pattern memories in internal storage, expandable via SD card for virtually unlimited sound and pattern libraries. Housed in a robust desktop enclosure measuring 315mm × 454mm × 90mm (including knob height) and weighing 3.7 kg, the PĒRKONS HD-01 is built for both road-worthiness and studio use.
Technical Specifications
Voice Architecture
- 4 hybrid voices (digital sound engine + analogue multimode filter with overdrive)
- 3 sound engine modes per voice
- 8 controls per voice for sound design
- HP/BP/LP (high-pass/band-pass/low-pass) filter per voice
- Individual voice outputs (6.3mm jack)
- Individual FX sends and returns per voice (6.3mm jack)
- All voices summed through built-in compressor
Modulation
- Modulation LFO with morphing waveforms
- Up to 8 modulation destinations per voice
Effects
- Built-in BBD (bucket brigade device) emulation
- Internal BBD FX send per voice
- Built-in compressor on master output
- Master FX send and return (6.3mm jack)
Sequencer
- 4-track sequencer with simultaneous control
- 4 time divisions per track
- 4 time multiplications per track
- Per-step ratchets
- Per-step probability programming
- Shuffle and groove settings for each track
- Parameter automation
Memory
- 64 kit memories (internal)
- 64 pattern memories (internal)
- Expandable memory via SD card
Connectivity
- External trigger input per voice (4 total)
- Individual audio outputs per voice (4 × 6.3mm jack)
- Individual FX sends and returns per voice (4 × 6.3mm jack)
- Master FX send and return (6.3mm jack)
- MIDI IN
- MIDI OUT
- SD card slot
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 315mm (W) × 454mm (D) × 90mm (H) including knob height
- Weight: 3.7 kg