Analogy Synthesizer for Pulsar/SCOPE Released
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(Click for a close-up) |
April 25, 2002
DSPDEV, a developer of audio studio tools, is introducing their newest offering - the Analogy.
The Analogy is an homage to the vintage synthesizers, but with the new possibilities offered by the digital age. It is a very easy to use device, with a classic look and feel. But it features several unique possibilities and is offering a very wide range of new great sounds.
Nicolas Choukroun explains the key features of this new virtual synthesizer:
DS Synthesis :
Because most digital synthesizers are not sounding as fat and warm as the original ones, I've tried to find a way to mathematically change a basic waveform (like a sine wave) in the way to mimic the kind of distortion that is happening to the analog ones. Our OSC accepts 2 more parameters (pressure and hygrometry). Even if we only use one parameter in this synth, the result offer a set of new possibilities, without going too far from the classic sounds we like. This synthesis is called DS (Destructive Synthesis) and basically it adds more "grain" and more harmonics, it allows new textures and new feelings, with a conventional synthesizer structure.
DS Filters :
Filters are the key of a good synthesizers. By practice, I've always found that most Digital Synthesizers are sounding "small". Specially when you try to find a real fat and warm brass pad like a Jupiter 8 does. If you want to play a Vangelis soundtrack like "Chariots of Fire", you must play with a real synth, because all the Digital ones are sounding too small. That's why I've created the DS Filtering system. It is slightly changing the filter sound and in some cases can create new effects. Also I've added 6 different filters to add more possibilities.
New sounds :
Have you ever tried to create metallic sounds with an OBX or an SH101? That's hard. Even if the JX series have a Ring modulator that can achieve some friendly chime sounds, it is not really "metallic". I've played 20 years ago with a drum synthesizer, I've forgotten its name... And it was able to do the same sounds like when tubes are falling! When I was doing sounds for the Analogy (several months ago) I've found that some sounds were impossible to do with any software synth I known. For example I love some sounds from the Z1. That's how I decided to add small buttons and tricks to dramatically increase the creative potential of this new synth. I've created several modification to the synth "standards" to like the Sync Ring Modulator, the Morph. With the Analogy, you can ring modulate the OSC 2 & 3 AND use the OSC 1 to Morph the 3 OSC together! Also there are several interesting tips such as : you can modulate any OSC with an ADSR.
Ergonomy at its best :
Some digital synths are really nice. But when you use them, you realize that it is almost impossible to have a real productive and professional work, for example using potentiometers for ADSR is a torture! I've designed this synth with productivity in mind, and I know that without boundaries, the inspiration comes easier and faster! Every section is clearly limited. Sound sources in Blue. Modifiers like ADSR, FILTERS, Setups in red, and the effects in cream. Also this synth has only the essential possibilities, I've avoid adding hundred of options that are taking time to setup and miss the user in a maze of possibilities. The Analogy is optimized and only the necessary things are on the main panel, with no popup! The ADSR are using large and very precise sliders. Vue-meters have been added in several sections to better understand saturation issues and keep visual things that always stay hidden
Features :
- 8 new waveforms based on the DS Synthesis (Destructive Synthesis). The waveforms are : DS Sine, DS Saw, DS Fractal Square, DS Square, DS Pulse, DS Prime, DS Reed, DS Bass. More info will be available soon.
- OSC 1 & OSC 2 can be ring modulated, OSC 2 and OSC 3 can be ring modulated as well. OSC 1,2 and 3 can be Morphed. The morph frequencies can be changed from the Morph panel.
- 4 Envelopes, 3 that can be routed to the OSCs one dedicated for the final volume.
- 6 filters with resonance and their own envelope! Classic Vintage, Comb filter, Band Reject, Low pass, High Pass and Pass Band.
- DS Filter system, unique filter.
- 4 LFO that can be routed to the filters or the OSCs.
- Effect section with Reverb, Synchronized Chorus & Flange, Symetrical Distortion, and Multitaps delays.
- Pitch Modulation panel (inspired by the Bluesynth)
- 120 presets for all use. (Bass, Leads, Atmospheres, Pads, Keys)
For more information, visit their web site at www.dspdev.com. |
