Arturia today introduced Synthx V, a new virtual instrument for Mac & Windows based on the Elka Synthex, a vintage analog polysynth from 1981.
They say that Synthx V goes above and beyond the original hardware, with enhancements and modulation options that put its sound design capabilities on par with the most powerful polysynths available today.
Key Features:
- Emulates classic Elka Synthex polysynth
- Multitimbral – Synthx V’s bi-timbral architecture offers an “expansive sound design playground”
- Panoramic voicing – With voice layering, independent panning, stereo voice spread, dual analog chorus and a new dedicated unison.
- Multimode filter – Synth V emulates the original’s filter, and adds a new low-pass mode
- “Vintage Knob” – Introduce some circuit decay and detuning with the Vintage Knob, a continuous control that allows you to fine-tune the synth’s calibration from crystal-clear to worn-and-torn.
- Advanced sonic treatment – Explore territory no Synthex has ever been with a one-of-a-kind Multi-Arp, 4 slot Effects rack, drag-and-drop modulation and expressive keyboard customization like MPE and Polyphonic Aftertouch.
Note: Synthx V does not appear to have any connection to the earlier SynthX app from Way Out Ware.
Pricing and Availability:
Synthx V is available now for $199 USD.
Wonder how it compares to Cherry Audio’s Elka-X.
And curious about what goes on, in these plugin devs’ R&D teams. How do they choose a poly analog to emulate when? Do they secure licenses from the original manufacturers?
I took up Cherry Audio’s version early and its a serious, fun beastie. Its become a go-to poly for me. Its a DCO synth, but sure doesn’t lack audio balls, as some of those do. It has a unique voice.
If this version has added features you really crave, go for it. It sounds good and was clearly not casually cobbled together. OTOH, I don’t need it to be bi-timbral. All I have to do is layer two or three of my Elka for monster pads and the like. My DAW has effects out the wazoo, so I use on-board FX for simple basics and do the heavy lifting with fancier tools.
Having said that, their effects rack is very tasty and the multi-arp section is brilliant. You always have to weigh this n’ that when considering a new piece. The CS-80 & Jupiter-8 deserve their renown, but to my surprise, its the Synthex & Memorymoog that are giving me the best synth muscle. I was wondering when Arturia would get to the Elka.