Synthmaster 2
Key Features
- Multi-synthesis engine covering 12 methods including Virtual Analog, Wavetable, FM, Phase Modulation, Additive, Physical Modeling, and SFZ Sample Playback
- Dual-layer architecture with two oscillators per layer, stereo unison with up to 8 voices per oscillator, and flexible voice stacking
- Zero delay feedback filters with analog-modeled multimode, dual (parallel/series), and comb filter types for physical modeling tones
- 11 built-in effects (Distortion, LoFi, Ensemble, Phaser, EQ, Compressor, Vocoder, Delay, Chorus, Tremolo, Reverb) with flexible pre/inside/after filter routing
- Massive modulation architecture with 95 sources, hundreds of targets, and a 64-slot modulation matrix supporting drag-and-drop assignment
- Powerful arpeggiator with classic and advanced modes, 32-step sequencer with per-step velocity, note length, slide, and hold parameters
- Comprehensive preset browser with search by instrument type, attributes, music style, or author, plus NKS compatibility for Komplete Kontrol and Maschine
Description
SynthMaster Player is the preset-focused version of KV331 Audio's award-winning SynthMaster 2, a semi-modular synthesizer that packs an extraordinary range of synthesis methods into a single plugin. It covers Virtual Analog, Additive, Wavetable, Wavescanning, Phase Modulation, Phase Distortion, Frequency Modulation, Pulse Width Modulation, Ring Modulation, Amplitude Modulation, Physical Modeling, and SFZ Sample Playback.
The dual-layer architecture gives each layer two oscillators, modulators, and a fully configurable effects chain with 11 effect types. Zero delay feedback filters include analog-modeled multimode, dual, and comb filter options, all with continuous parameter control.
SynthMaster has earned endorsements from artists like Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix, Zedd, and Axwell, and was voted Best VST/AU Synth by MusicRadar readers in 2016. Users consistently praise the rich sound quality and the sheer depth of modulation possibilities, with 95 separate modulation sources and hundreds of targets.
The Player edition ships with factory presets from a world-class roster of sound designers including BigTone, Nori Ubukata, NatLife, and Aiyn Zahev. While editing is limited to easy parameters and effect bypass states, the preset library spans EDM, trance, synthwave, cinematic, pop, and experimental genres.
Available as a 64-bit plugin in VST, AU, and AAX formats, it runs on macOS 10.9 and above or Windows 7 and above, requiring a multicore 2 GHz processor and 2 GB of RAM.
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Tips
- Explore the factory presets to get a feel for the plugin's capabilities and find inspiration.
- Use the modulation matrix to create complex and evolving sounds by routing various modulation sources to different parameters.
- Experiment with the different synthesis methods to understand their unique characteristics and how they can be combined.
- Take advantage of the flexible effects routing to shape your sound before, during, and after the filter stages.
- Utilize the arpeggiator to add rhythmic and melodic complexity to your tracks.
- Customize the user interface to suit your workflow and make navigation easier.
- Use the Scala tuning feature to explore microtonal music and create unique scales.
- Regularly check for updates and new expansion packs to keep your sound library fresh and up-to-date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SynthMaster Player and the full SynthMaster 2?
SynthMaster Player is a streamlined version designed for preset users. It includes the same sound engine and factory presets as the full version, but editing is limited to 12 easy parameters assigned by the sound designer and effect bypass states. The full SynthMaster 2 unlocks complete access to oscillators, filters, modulation matrix, and all synthesis parameters.
Can SynthMaster Player load third-party expansion packs?
Yes, SynthMaster Player can load all official KV331 Audio expansion banks. There are currently 38 expansion banks with over 2,300 presets available covering genres from EDM and trance to synthwave and cinematic scoring. Presets from expansions are also compatible with SynthMaster 3.
Does SynthMaster 2 support NKS for use with Native Instruments hardware?
Yes, all 2,000 factory presets are NKS compatible. They can be browsed, previewed, and controlled directly from Komplete Kontrol keyboards and Maschine hardware and software without any additional configuration.
How CPU-intensive is SynthMaster compared to other multi-engine synths?
SynthMaster is generally considered efficient for the depth of synthesis it offers. The polyphony is adjustable up to 64 voices per patch, and users can balance CPU usage against quality by adjusting the internal sampling rate. Most users report it runs well even in sessions with multiple instances.
