BEST OF THE REST
Korg Gadget for Mac $299
We still have slightly mixed feelings about the Mac version of Korg’s virtual synth studio. On the one hand, it offers a great bundle of easy-to-use instruments covering a broad range of sounds, including excellent versions of the M1 and Wavestation. The ability to send projects between desktop and iOS versions is great too, as well as the ability to load Gadgets in your chosen DAW. It’s still pricey for what it is though – particularly if you’re planning on picking up both iOS and Mac versions, which require separate purchases. Get it while it’s on sale (which thankfully seems to happen pretty regularly!)
UAD Moog Multimode Filter XL £189
Universal Audio have continued to produce quality DSP-powered plugins at a cracking rate through 2017. There have been several highlights, such as the impressive take on the Korg SDD-3000 delay and the new EL8 Distressor. It’s this Moog filter emulation that impressed us the most though. Developed in conjunction with the Asheville synth brand, this plugin is a multimode take on Moog’s classic filter design – based on that found in the Sub 37 – paired with flexible modulation tools and an excellent sequencer. It’s a fantastic tool for sound shaping, and a must for UAD-ready studios.
KV331 Audio SynthMaster One $79
SynthMaster One is an impressive compromise between complexity and simplicity. It’s a ‘beginner friendly’ version of KV331’s flagship wavetable synth SynthMaster, which strips back some of the deeper editing features to create a more approachable and affordable synth built around a single-window UI. While it’s certainly more approachable, there’s still a ton of depth here, with complex cycling wavetable oscillators, analogue-style filters, quality effects and a ton of modulation. If you’re looking for a deep, powerful sounding softsynth which captures the immediacy of hardware, SynthMaster One is worth a look.
Blue Cat Audio Late Replies €129
Blue Cat’s delay plugin offers a unique take on the classic delay repeat effect, by allowing users to load effects into one of two feedback loops – either from its internal arsenal or from your own list of third party VST/AU plugins. A clever adaptive interface allows to the plugin to grow as you add more effects to it. It can even play host to additional versions of itself, for some seriously meta delay mangling!