Ondes Musicales

Spitfire Audio releases new free expansions for LABS on a regular basis. In September, they have taken on a particularly rare and unusual electronic instrument for this purpose: Ondes Martenot is a monophonic electronic musical instrument first introduced in 1928 and inspired by the Theremin. Like the Theremin, Ondes Martenot is based on the principle of the floating buzzer, the sound of which can be modified with electronic filters. The 7-octave electronic keyboard instrument is played with the right hand via a manual or by means of a ring (glissandi), while simultaneously controlling dynamics and timbre with the left hand. The ring for glissandi sits on a wire that runs parallel to the keyboard. With the left hand, the player can control the volume and influence the timbre through filters.

Just like the Theremin, the Ondes Martenot requires a certain level of playing skill, which is why Spitfire Audio enlisted the help of Josh Semans, who is experienced with it, to create a unique virtual instrument. However, Ondes Musicales (=musical waves) does not only contain the pure sounds of the original, a lot of post-processing was done in the form of downstream effects and guitar pedals; even modular and granular technology was used.

Verdict

Ondes Musicales is one of the most exciting free expansions for Spitfire Audio LABS to date. This is partly because of the unusual sounds Ondes Martenot can produce in the right hands, but also because of the inspiring presets the developers have conjured up from it!