XILS-lab has introduced The Eighty, a new software synthesizer for Mac & Windows, based on the Yamaha CS-80, that they describe as a “virtual Vangelis soundalike homage.”
Here’s what they have to say about it:
“The Eighty is a groundbreaking synthesizer inspired by the legendary CS-80, delivering unmatched warmth and expressiveness.
It features three synthesis lines : two that faithfully recreate the linked high-pass and low-pass filters that defined the CS-80’s iconic sound, and a third line, seamlessly blendable through an innovative 2D mixer for expanded sonic possibilities.
With its rich analog character, extensive modulation capabilities, and intuitive interface, The Eighty offers sound designers, producers, and musicians the tools to craft everything from lush pads and soaring leads to deep, textured soundscapes. A modern tribute to a timeless classic.”
Here’s the official intro video:
Features:
- Three synthesis lines
- Each synthesis line features one oscillator with LFO, high Pass and Low pass Filters with two envelopes.
- Advanced 2D Mixer with animation.
- Extended Arpeggiator which can modulate component depending on the current step.
- Easy access to Vibrato, Tremolo, Poly After touch, Velocity.
- Four effects with independent routing: Delay, Phaser, Reverb, EQ.
- A ring modulator associated with a simple envelope.
- A chorus for Tremolo and Vibrato as well as ensemble effects.
- ‘Plenty’ of modulation sources and destinations.
- Advanced Preset manager.
The Eighty Vangelis Demo:
How close does it get to Vangelis nirvana? Check out this audio demo and let us know what you think in the comments!
Note: The Eighty is available to purchase as an iLok-protected virtual instrument plug-in (including computer-based authorisation).
Pricing and Availability:
The Eighty is available with an intro price of €89.00 EUR until January 31, 2025 (normally €179.00 EUR.
tried the demo. too bad it doesn’t support MPE (only poly-aftertouch). sounds/looks great though
I look at these like I look at zombie movies. I like them but I think there’s been enough and I’m ready for something new and original.
me, i want to buy a thing, not a picture of a thing, or just the sound of a thing. i want the thing itself.
download QR’s codes to win streaming VST’s! woooooo! yawn…
Probably the best analogy I’ve read regarding the current state of synths right now. Thank you, Sir.
I also don’t get the whole nostalgia wave of constant rehashes or toys disguised as synths (you know, which companies I mean), but then I always remember that most people are collectors, not musicians. And then I just set up a notification to inform me, when people start selling the almost unused good stuff with huge discount on eBay. Happy days.
Exactly, already been done to death
UI looks real nice, but many other options in this price range or cheaper and without iLok shenanigans.
The slice of the pie gets thinner and thinner.
I love the UI; not enough to have another ilok-bound plugin. I really scrutinize those purchases.
Yeah, I have the GX-80, CS-80v, MemoryMoon ME80 and a Montage M8x (poly aftertouch).
I despise iLOK, so unless it’s a killer it will be NG for me.
I’ve downloaded the demo and will give it a whirl.
In my view, just pick a “CS-80” and embrace it. The heart of the original is being served well. This one has a good plus with that third voice. Its a smart addition in a synth you generally buy for how big it can sound. Its more challenging than a Prophet, so prepare to dive in a little further. It can bark, but it also has a nice quiet side.
I seemed to have amassed all the cs80s, this one like all xils rises to the top, sounds amazing imo. After 10 years ive had no isues with ilok, maybe im missing something?
If your iLok breaks you are stranded unless you have a ZDT subscription, which gives you the pleasure to forever pay for your licenses again.
PACE is just a bad company and the iLok concept is outdated.
Everything to do with iLok should be boycotted. It’s anti-consumer.
Tbh i have so many plugins that it is impossible not have some iLok bound ones.
That said, what irritates me the most when i think of iLok are the transfer fees in case you want to move any license. They want 25 dollars a pop. For one single fkn plugin. Or 50 if you do more than one. This is a steal and i mean it as in steal= Steal and not like a steal= Bargain.
This devaluates plugins which are already often devaluated by the Devs with constant sales that make you feel extra stupid buying full price as i have done too many times.
I try to avoid it now but i have 280 plugins with iLok. What do you do in this case?
My experience with XILS is that they make synths that sound very nice, very analog, but absoluely nothing like what they’re meant to be emulating – certainly the case with their RS-505 and Synthi emulations. I wonder if this will be any different.
Certainly brave of them to release this after Softube’s version.
+1 about iLok. I had enough hassles with it that I ditched the software. The modern world has oodles of instruments that don’t burden you that way. iLok is a non-starter that protects ME from buying a company’s troublesome goods.
Forget immigrants. Advertising copywriters are the ones who need to be banished to a deserted island.