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Tag: Virtual Instrument

Softube Volume 1 Review
What is Volume 1?

Volume 1 is Softube’s first bundled collection featuring sixteen multi-award-winning plugins designed to address crucial music production tasks. The bundle includes effects like tape emulation, compressors, EQs, and even amp sims. This deep-dive Softube Volume 1 review will introduce you to all 16 plugins and overview noteworthy, nifty features.

Included Plugins:
Summit Audio EQF-100 EQ

Summit Audio TLA-100A Compressor

TSAR-1 Reverb

TSAR-1r Reverb

Trident A-Range

Vintage Amp Room

Bass Amp Room
Summit Audio Grand Channel

Drawmer S73 Intelligent Master Processor

Fix Flanger

Fix Doubler

Tube Delay

Modular (synth)

Heartbeat (drum machine)
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Pages: 1 2
June 13, 2017
TAL U-NO-LX Review
What is U-NO-LX v2?

U-NO-LX is an amazing virtual analog synthesizer plugin developed by Togu Audio Line (TAL). It faithfully recreates the iconic sound of the famous Roland Juno-60 analog synthesizer. This brilliant VA synth accurately captures that characteristic “thick vintage sound” that the original hardware was known and loved for, while offering modern workflow conveniences. In this detailed TAL U-NO-LX review, let’s scope out its generous features — such as:
- Three DCOs (Digitally Controlled Oscators) modeling the original Juno-60’s oscillator design
- 24-dB low-pass filter with resonance
- Built-in high-quality chorus effect (a signature Juno feature)
- Portamento/glide functionality
- Selectable filter-LFO waveforms
- Integrated arpeggiator with multiple sync modes
READ MORE >>
May 20, 2016
Arturia Mini V Review
Producer Pack 61 Review – Part III

What is Mini V?

Mini V is a software synthesizer that emulates the legendary Moog Minimoog Model D, one of the most iconic analog synthesizers ever made. Arturia’s Mini V (v2) is part of their “V Collection” – a suite of virtual instrument recreations of classic hardware synths. It is also an integral part of their fabulous hybrid Producer Pack. This is a deep-dive Arturia Mini V review. We’ll discover wonderful features such as:
- Faithful emulation of the Minimoog Model D’s oscillators, filter (the famous ladder filter), and envelope structure
- Added modern features: MIDI control, arpeggiator, sequencer, effects, and expanded modulation options
- Cross-platform: Available for Mac and Windows as standalone or plugin (VST/VST3/AU/AAX)
READ MORE >>
June 12, 2015
Arturia Analog Lab Review
Producer Pack – Part II

What is Analog Lab?

Analog Lab is a streamlined software instrument designed to give users quick access to Arturia’s extensive library of vintage instrument emulations. It serves as an easy-to-use, unified front-end for all the instruments in Arturia’s V Collection suite. Throughout this deep-dive Arturia Analog Lab review, we’ll explore how It prioritizes workflow speed and performance over deep per-instrument sound design.

Analog Lab leads the pack because of its unique, expansive feature set:
- Integrates PERFECTLY with Arturia’s KeyLab MIDI keyboards
- 5000+ Factory Presets: Originally shipped with hundreds of hand-crafted presets drawn from the V Collection instruments
- Streamlined Browser: A fast preset browsing system that let users audition sounds quickly and organize them into playlists
- Global Control Section: Single filter, envelope, LFO, and drive controls that could be mapped to MIDI hardware
- Dual-Part Layering: Ability to layer two instruments together
- Split Keyboard Functionality: Split the keyboard to play different instruments in different ranges
- Built-in Effects: Reverb, delay, chorus, and phaser
- MIDI Learn: Macro knobs assignable to external controllers
- Deep Integration: Could import and edit any V Collection instrument preset while preserving the full parameter set for deeper sound design
READ MORE >>
June 9, 2015
AcousticSampleS Wurlie Review
What is Wurlie?

Wurlie is a high-quality sample library designed to recreate the inimitable sound of the Wurlitzer 206A. This classic student-model electric piano is known for its distinct, warm, and slightly gritty tone. Unlike some other libraries that focus on the more common 200 or 200A models, Wurlie replicates the 206A. As a result, it offers a unique, special voice. In this comprehensive AcousticSamples Wurlie review, we’ll check out nifty details like:
- Deep Sampling: It captures the instrument with multiple velocity layers and round-robin articulations to ensure natural dynamics and playability.
- Tonal Character: The instrument is famous for its “reedy” sound. It ranges from mellow and warm to punchy and distorted, depending on how hard you play.
- Customization: Controls for adjusting reed resonance, mic positions, and other tonal nuances to shape the sound.
- Compatibility: It is available as a full sampler library, primarily working within UVI Workstation player.
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June 4, 2015
AcousticSampleS Mark79 Review
What is Mark79?

Mark79 is an impressively detailed sample library that recreates the classic 1979 Fender Rhodes Mark II 73-key electric piano. It’s available exclusively in .ufs format for UVI’s Workstation and Falcon sample players. Throughout this in-depth AcousticSamples Mark79 review, we’ll take a look at its notable attributes such as:
- Source Instrument: Based on a classic 1979 Rhodes Mark II with 73 keys
- Recording Method: The original piano’s direct output was captured through a tube pre-amplifier, preserving its warm, bell-like vintage tone
- Musical Styles: Popular for soul, jazz, pop, and any production seeking authentic 1970s electric piano sounds
- 10 velocity layers for sustain samples
- 10 velocity layers for release samples
- Resonance modeling
- Staccato adjustments
- Release fine-tuning
- Vibrato controls (stereo pan depth and rate)
- Option to change vibrato to volume tremolo
READ MORE >>
May 26, 2015
MemoryMoon ME80 v2 Review
What is ME80 2?

ME80 2 is a virtual instrument/software synthesizer that emulates the legendary Yamaha CS-80 analog synthesizer. Now in available in native 64 bit format, the improved 2.x version takes the convincing CS-80 emulation even higher. I’m excited to present this detailed MemoryMoon ME80 v2 review to you. We’ll cover important features like:
- 64-bit architecture: Completely rebuilt by Chris Kerry using his CK_engine for modern systems
- Improved sound fidelity: Better audio quality than earlier versions
- 512 presets organized into 4 banks
- Aftertouch expression: Extensive polyphonic aftertouch support (highlighted as a main focus)
- Authentic GUI: Interface closely mirrors the original Yamaha CS-80 hardware
- Optimized for performance: Designed for players who want to perform for extended periods
READ MORE >>
May 7, 2015
ToonTrack EZdrummer 2 [In Depth] Review
What is EZdrummer 2?

EZdrummer 2 is virtual drum instrument and software suite designed for music producers, songwriters, and recording engineers. This impressive program is a streamlined, user-friendly alternative to their more complex flagship product, Superior Drummer. In this exhaustive Toontrack EZdrummer 2 review, we’ll uncover its amazing features and benefits such as:
- Core Functionality: It allows users to create realistic drum performances using high-quality sampled audio. Unlike a simple loop library, it generates MIDI patterns that can be edited, allowing for custom grooves, fills, and variations.
- Sound Library: It comes with a base sound library (typically “Standard Rock”) but is designed to be expandable. Users can purchase additional “Expansion Packs” (like “Pop,” “Metal,” “Jazz,” or genre-specific packs) to access hundreds of new kits, cymbals, and percussion instruments.
- MIDI Grid & Drag-and-Drop: One of its most praised features is the intuitive interface. It includes a vast library of pre-programmed MIDI grooves and fills organized by genre and style. Users can simply drag and drop these patterns onto a timeline or click them to trigger playback.
- Mixing Tools: It includes built-in mixing controls, allowing users to adjust the volume, panning, and EQ of individual drum components (kick, snare, toms, overheads, room mics, etc.) directly within the plugin.
- Integration: It works as a VST, AU, or AAX plugin within Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, and Studio One.
- It also supports MIDI mapping for external drum controllers.
READ MORE >>
July 8, 2014
ToonTrack EZkeys Review
What is EZkeys?

EZkeys is both a super cool virtual instrument AND a composition tool. Musicians, producers, and songwriters can now create hyper-realistic piano, keyboard, and electric piano parts without mastering advanced playing skills. This tool empowers creators at all levels to bring their visions to life. In this exhaustive Toontrack EZkeys review, we’ll investigate nifty features such as:
- MIDI Library: It comes with an extensive library of professionally recorded MIDI patterns covering various genres (pop, rock, jazz, classical, etc.). Users can drag and drop these patterns into their Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) to instantly generate chord progressions and melodies.
- Virtual Instruments: EZkeys includes high-quality sampled instruments (like grand pianos, upright pianos, electric pianos, and organs) that play the MIDI data.
- Chord Progression Tool: One of its standout features is the ability to generate chord progressions based on music theory rules. Users can select a key and style, and the software suggests harmonically correct chords, which can then be customized.
- Integration: It works as a plugin within major DAWs (like Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Pro Tools, etc.). It also functions as a standalone application.
- Customization: You can edit the generated MIDI notes, change voicings, adjust velocity, and modify the sound parameters to fit your specific production needs.
READ MORE >>
Pages: 1 2
July 7, 2013
EmberTone Shire Whistle Review
What is Shire Whistle?

Shire Whistle is a virtual instrument that recreates a traditional Irish feadóg (whistle). Its enchanting tone is reminiscent of the flute and whistle sounds you hear in the Lord of the Rings movies. It lures the listener in with its authentic charm and sonic character. In this detailed Embertone Shire Whistle review we’ll take a look at its key benefits such as:
- A sample-based virtual instrument designed for composers and producers seeking authentic Irish folk sounds
- Virtualized traditional Irish whistle with comprehensive articulations
- Designed to deliver an “Irish-spirit” sound for cinematic, folk, or world music projects
- Sample-based tones rather than synthesized, providing more authentic acoustic character
READ MORE >>
June 25, 2013

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