FLUX, Soma’s wild theremin-inspired synthesizer controlled by hand motions, is shipping nowNearly two years after it was first announced, Soma Laboratory’s FLUX synth is finally shipping.
The highly anticipated instrument reimagines expressive electronic performance by allowing musicians to control sound entirely through hand motions. Unlike traditional synthesizers, FLUX eliminates the need for physical touch, using magnetic sensors and handheld bows to shape pitch, volume, and synthesis parameters in real time.

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At its core, FLUX draws inspiration from the Theremin (yes, that instrument that makes a sound when you move your hands and fingers around its antenna) but operates on an entirely different principle.
Rather than relying on capacitive coupling between the hands and antennae, FLUX uses magnetic sensors to track the motion of two handheld bows. This enables players to manipulate sound with unparalleled fluidity, creating a uniquely organic and dynamic playing experience.
By using a multipolar magnetic sensor, the instrument accurately detects the player’s hand positions and movements: The right-hand bow controls pitch (via the X-axis) and volume (via the Z-axis), while the left-hand bow influences various synthesis parameters through its X, Y, and Z coordinates.
Since magnets have two poles, FLUX can also detect the angle of the bows. A simple flip of the right-hand bow on the Y-axis shifts the octave, granting players access to six continuous octaves without traditional transposition.Tilting the right-hand bow left or right on the X-axis controls two independent modulation parameters.
Meanwhile, the left-hand bow shapes timbre: the sensor has six poles, and independently registers positive and negative magnetic fields. This lets the user change which parameters are controlled by flipping the bow, enabling control of up to twelve independent sound parameters.
Together with the pitch, volume and two additional tilt parameters on the right-hand bow, you have access to a total of sixteen sonic controls you can use during performance, without ever touching the surface of the instrument.
Image: Soma Labs
Additionally, FLUX’s digital-to-analogue converters are designed in-house by Soma using high-end principles. The instrument works in monophonic, duophonic and polyphonic modes. Staccato-enabling and quantisation modes are also available, and unlike a theremin, FLUX features a clearly marked note scale, making it easier to learn and play in tune. The instrument’s synthesis is DSP-based and features spatial effects.
According to Soma, FLUX’s firmware will continue to evolve, with new synthesis engines planned for future updates. Specially designed presets will allow users to save and recall their complete setup, making FLUX an ideal tool for both experimental electronic musicians and academic composers seeking deep, expressive control over sound.
Priced at $1,300, FLUX is now shipping to Soma Laboratory’s international network of dealers.

Learn more at Soma Synths.
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