GoKawiilArturia launches MiniFreak 49 with full-size keys and XYZ touchpad
Arturia has released the MiniFreak 49, a new synth in its Freak lineup built on the same engine as the existing MiniFreak but with 49 full-sized, semi-weighted keys instead of minikeys, plus aluminum pitch and mod wheels. It adds a larger LCD, dedicated controls for its two sound engines, audio-rate filter FM, 256MB of sample/wavetable storage, and a new XYZ touchpad for navigating presets and performance controls. The instrument is available now with an MSRP of $849.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The move toward full-sized keys, weighted action, and dedicated physical controls suggests Arturia is positioning the Freak line to appeal to more traditional keyboard players and studio professionals, not just tinkerers drawn to the brand's quirky MicroFreak origins. Replacing the slower knob-based mod matrix with a touchpad interface could make complex sound design faster and more performance-friendly on stage.
- MiniFreak 49 shares its sound engine with the original MiniFreak but adds 49 semi-weighted keys
- New XYZ touchpad replaces knob-based mod matrix for faster preset browsing and live control
- Priced at $849 MSRP, with street price expected to be lower
Arturia MiniFreak 49 Synthesizer — This is literally the synth the article covers—a hybrid digital/analog instrument with 49 semi-weighted keys, dual sound engines, and over 30 oscillator types for crafting weird and wonderful sounds. Great pick for anyone wanting a more performance-ready version of the Freak lineup with proper pitch/mod wheels and a bigger display.
See Arturia MiniFreak 49 Synthesizer on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: theverge.com — Terrence O'Brien, 2026-10-20
Published there as: “Arturia’s MiniFreak 49 makes its Freak synths more professional”
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