FXpansion Cypher 2
Unlike many of the synths in this feature, FXpansion’s Cypher 2 doesn’t make use of wavetables, samples or granular synthesis.
> At its core are three virtual analogue oscs feeding into a pair of analogue-modeled filters. This is more than a simple analogue emulation though; what sets Cypher apart is its modulation capabilities, in the form of both audio-rate osc mod – which can generate FM, ring mod and waveshaping, among other effects – and complex parameter movement routed through the TransMod grid, via an eclectic array of modulators. FXpansion were bought by Roli a few years ago, so little surprise that Cypher 2 also uses ‘5D’ MPE control. With 500 well-designed 5D presets and the ability to route pressure, slide, lift and strike values through the mod matrix, Cypher 2 may be the best application of MPE we’ve seen so far in a softsynth.
Cypher 2’s modulation is routed using the TransMod grid at the top of the interface. The upper 16 slots can be assigned both a primary modulation source and a scale input, which essentially lets users combine two modulation sources. This is great for, say, setting up filter modulation that also responds to note velocity, or making eccentric custom LFOs. The bottom eight TransMod slots are controlled by curves, rather than scale inputs. Five of these are preset to respond to MPE inputs.
Cypher 2 uses two Dual LFOs that offer cool modulation options. Each has two wave outputs, a main LFO signal and a sub (a secondary LFO linked to the first, set at a division of its rate). This is great for routing 2+ modulation setups that remain in sync – ie you could have separate LFO speeds modulating the two filters, but sweep the relative speed of both from a single Rate control.
The effects section is well-equipped. Our favourite processor is Pattern Delay, a multitap delay that lets users set individual pitches, levels, pan, filter and sequence positions for each of the four delay taps. This feeds into a second, simple stereo delay that adds further repeats. It’s great for cascading, modular-style walls of delay. The taps can even create melodic patterns of their own.
Cypher 2’s Euclidean modulator is unique and enigmatic, but fun and useful. Unlike a standard Euclidean sequencer, Cypher’s device is an X/Y control pad that uses Euclidean geometry to define modulation. Even without getting deep, it can be useful to assign parameters to the X/Y axis and use the modulators, slew and rate to slow/skew mod signals for morphing sound changes.