Francis Preve announces the release of his latest preset pack for Xfer, Serum Models, exploring a new approach to synthesis within Serum that leverages its unique filters for Karplus-Strong and physical modeling tasks.
“Having used Serum since before its introduction, I’ve come to realize that its synthesis engine is capable of far more than what currently exists in the preset pack market,” notes Preve. “I’ve always suspected that certain physical modeling synths may overstate their capabilities, so I set out to demonstrate that familiar processing tools can also accomplish many of the same tasks as ‘waveguides.’ Serum Models is an example of how to push a softsynth far beyond its initial applications.”
No wavetables or sampled instruments were used to create these presets.
The collection includes an array of acoustic sounds including Violins, Cellos, Reed, as well as plucked instruments like Kotos, Guitars, and a variety of fretted instruments. Also included are compelling recreations of world percussion, ranging from Congas and Bongos, to unusual Asian drums.
By leveraging Serum’s deeper filtering options, Serum Models focuses on synthesis techniques that don’t rely on samples or wavetables. There are zero instrument samples whatsoever in this collection. Instead, the pack uses Serum’s resonant tools to create truly acoustic-sounding instruments with articulated performance dynamics via velocity, macros, and modulation wheel to shape the sounds in real-time.
By combining Serum’s resonating filters and then processing them via Serum’s suite of FX, Preve has recreated the the results of physical modeling’s “waveguides”, without the confusing parameters – and heavy CPU load – of commercial physical modeling synths.
Powerful Macros: Every Serum Models preset includes four macros for precise control, including fundamental, pick, bow, tone shaping, envelope, and custom FX processing. No complex physical modeling skills required. “It’s like getting a totally new synth for the price of a pack.”
The Serum Models preset collection contains:
- 24 Plucks and Guitars
- 18 Drum, Percussion, and Mallets
- 3 Bass
- 9 Solo and Orchestral Strings
- 11 Brass and Horn
- 15 Wind and Reed
- 14 Synth and Choir
- 7 Sound Effects
Also included: All Ableton Live 11 Project files used to make the demo examples.
Pricing and Availability:
Serum Models is available now via the Xfer webstore for $29 USD. For more information, consult the Xfer website.
Very impressive, but not too surprising. Preve has been teaching synthesis at a high level for years, as well as contributing to Keyboard magazine and many synth libraries. He has excellent ears! A sensible insta-buy.