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Two Interesting new software synthesizer from 2019
A quick look at two plugins from 2019. Arturia Pigments and Native Instruments Massive X. Two wavetable synths with an analog synth sound and lots of features. Some of the best synths there is.
Arturia Pigments synth
Pigments is a modern digital analog synth build on Arturias V3 Host system. Compared to Massive X this is an easier synthesizer with a simpler GUI. It has lots of filters like Moog, SEM, and matrix 12 from V Collection plus some new ones.
A dual-engine synthesizer with two filters, an effects section and a sequencer/arpeggiator. A simple design and easy to use.
The effects
There is some build in quality effects like Wavefolder, Compressor, reverb, and delay
Pigments update
Late last year Arturia updated the synth to a V2 with a sample engine featuring a granular synthesis option.
New Pigments 2 engine types
The new sample based engine is a great add on to an already great synthesizer.
A very musical instrument. New Synths 2019, best synthesizers with a new sample engine with granular synthesis option
Pros
- Nice and unique GUI
- Clever modulation
- This synth can do any kind of sound from deep bass to epic pads
Cons
- The effects system is a little over complicated
- Can be a bit CPU heavy
What is new in Pigments
- Sampler engine with multi samples option
- Includes a granular synthesis part
- MPE support
- Improved sequencer
This is a good and versatile synthesizer and worth having. Not a cheap synth but a highligt of the year synthesizer.
Synthesizer poll
Native Instruments Massive X - wavetable synth
Massive X is also a completely new synth from 2019. A modern version of the old Massive from 2007. A power synth with the features to make modern and vintage sounds.
A more generic synthesizer compared to the old Massive.
The interface is good but like the old Massive not for beginners who want to start programming presets.
Compared to Pigments Massive X is more complicated with a busier GUI but it’s a powerful and well build plugin.
Pros
- In Massive X everything is bigger and extended compared to the old Massive
- A generically built synthesizer
Cons
- Requires an AVX compatible CPU
- Can be a bit CPU heavy
New effects in Massive X
This synth has 2 x 3 effects inserts. The groups have different options.
Effects slots A,b, C
Massive A, B and C slot
Effect A,B and C has 10 effects to choose from
Massive Oscillator effect
OSC is a clever way to add more oscillators to a preset through the effects system.
Affect slot A, B and C can be set to Oscillator to add 3 extra oscillators.
Massive X slot C with a Wave Folder effect
The wave folder is another interesting effect.
Massive Effects slots X, Y, Z
X, Y and Z has a list of 9 to choose from.
Massive X Stereo Expanader effect
Stereo Expander is a new and was not part of the original Massive synthesizer.
As the name says it widens the stereo by timeshifting the left and right signals. It creates phase issues so beware of overusing it.
Nonlinear Lab effect
Nonlinear Lab is a new effect for nonlinear effects like distortion/overdrive. It has a cabinet and amp model probably from the GuitarRig plugin.
Massive X is interesting and ok priced as part of Native Instrument Komplete 12
Arturia Pigments and Native Instruments Massive X are some of the best synthesizers capable of making new and interesting textures and old analog sounds.