Extra Behringer synth worth drops in Europe: 14 within the month of July 2025

Extra Behringer synth worth drops in Europe: 14 within the month of July 2025


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Extra Behringer synth worth drops in February 2025 in Europe, together with on the Proton, Mannequin 15, and UB-Xa polyphonic analog Synthesizer. 

It’s July, and there’s loads of motion once more with Behringer’s EU costs. There are 12 new worth drops, together with the Professional-800 for 249€. New additions: the RD-8 MKII has dropped to 222€ and the UB-Xa D to 599€.

Product Outdated Worth New Worth ↑ ↓ Hyperlink
UB-Xa D 699€ (June 2025) 599€ (July 2025) -14% Thomann
RD-8 MKII 279€ (June 2025) 222€ (July 2025) -20% Thomann
Professional-800 289€ (June 2025) 249€ (July 2025) -14% Thomann
Solina 208€ (June 2025) 199€ (July 2025) -4% Thomann
Mannequin 15 222€ (June 2025) 199€ (July 2025) -10% Thomann
1047 Multi Filter/Resonator 69€ (June 2025) 53€ (July 2025) -23% Thomann
130 Twin VCA 39€ (June 2025) 36€ (July 2025) -8% Thomann
System 15 699€ (June 2025) 599€ (July 2025) -14% Thomann
RD-6-SB 95€ (June 2025) 79€ (July 2025) -17% Thomann
JT-4000M Micro 59€ (June 2025) 49€ (July 2025) -17% Thomann
992 Management Voltages 26€ (June 2025) 24€ (July 2025) -8% Thomann
CP3A-O OSC Controller 28€ (June 2025) 25,40€ (July 2025) -9% Thomann
921A Oscillator Driver 62€ (June 2025) 39€ (July 2025) -37% Thomann
921B Oscillator 59€ (June 2025) 56€ (July 2025) -5% Thomann
Edge 166€ (March 2025) 140€ (June 2025) – 15% Thomann
Kobol Expander 169€ (March 2025) 159€ (June 2025) – 6% Thomann
Deepmind 12 685€ (March 2025) 645 (June 2025) – 5,8% Thomann
Twin Part (FX) 159€ (March 2025) 73€ (June 2025) -54% Thomann
Area FX 69€ (March 2025) 59€ (June 2025) -14% Thomann
TD-3-TG 108€ (March 2025) 95€ (June 2025) -12% Thomann
Bode Freq Shifter 1630 105€ (March 2025) 99€ (June 2025) -6% Thomann
FCV100 V2 35€ (March 2025) 29€ (June 2025) -29% Thomann
4 Play 79€ (March 2025) 59€ (June 2025) -25% Thomann
CAT 179€ (March 2025) 169€ (June 2025) -6% Thomann
CP3A-M Mixer 59€ (March 2025) 56€ (June 2025) -5% Thomann
Twin Envelope Generator 1003 35€ (March 2025) 33€ (June 2025) -6% Thomann
962 Sequential Change 43€ (March 2025) 39€ (June 2025) -9% Thomann

March 2025

  • TD-3 AM Yellow: 120€ →104€ (13% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 173 Quad Gate/Multiples: 49€ → 39€ (20% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 995 Attenuators: 38€ → 18€ (38% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • Brains Macro Oscillator: 139€ → 99€ (29% OFF) (Nov 20, 2024) → 93€ (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 1003 Twin Envelope Generator: 57€ → 35€ (39% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • CP3A-O OSC Controller: 32€ → 28€ (13% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 914 Filter Financial institution: 79€ → 69€ (17% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 112 Twin VCO: 87€ → 81€ (7% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • 992 Voltage Controls: 29€ → 26€ (10% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • System 15: 769€ → 699€ (9% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • System 35: 759€ → 719€ (5% OFF) (Thomann) (March 22, 2025)
  • Solina string machine: 298€ → 222€ (25% OFF Nov 24) → 208€ (6,3% OFF) (Thomann) (March 18, 2025)
  • WASP Synthesizer: 155€ → 135€ (13,55% OFF) (Thomann) (March 17, 2025)
  • 2600 VCO: 74€ → 46€ (37% OFF) (Gear4music)  59€ (Thomann) (March 17, 2025)
  • MS-5: 598€ → 475€ (20% OFF) (Nov 29, 2024) → 426€ (10% OFF) (Thomann) (March 6, 2025)
  • 911 Envelope Generator: 66€ → 33€  (50% OFF) (Thomann) (March 6, 2025)
  • Twin Envelope Generator 1033: 75€ → 58€ (22% OFF) → 50€ (13% OFF) (Thomann) (March 6, 2025)

Curiously, the value of the Behringer UB-Xa went up once more from below 869€ to 899€.

February

  • Radar: 66€ → 42€ (36% OFF) (Jan 8) →  39€ (Thomann) (February 27, 2025)
  • Proton: 399€ → 328€ (17,79% OFF) → 319€  (Thomann) (Musicstore) (February 5, 2025)
  • Mannequin 15: 299€ → 269€ (10% OFF) → 249€ (Thomann) (February 5, 2025)

January 2025

  • 1050 Sequencer Module: 89€ → 76€ (14,61% OFF) (Thomann) (January 17, 2025)
  • A number of: 28€ → 19€ (32% OFF) (Thomann) (January 17, 2025)
  • Eurorack GO case: 229€ → 190€ (17% OFF) (Thomann) (Musicstore) (January 8, 2025)
  • Toro: 199€ → 177€ (Nov 8) → 169€ → 160€ (5% OFF) (Thomann) (January 8, 2025)
  • 4 LFO: 99€ → 82€ (17% OFF) (Thomann) (January 8, 2025) 
  • CM1A: 99€ → 40% OFF (60% OFF) (Thomann) (January 8, 2025)
  • 150 Ring Mod/Noise/S&H/LFO: 59€ → 49€ (16% OFF) (Nov 6) → 38€ (Thomann(January 8, 2025)
  • RS-9: 149€ → 142€ (5% OFF) (Thomann) (January 8, 2025)
  • 1016 Twin Noise/random turbines: 66€ → 34€ (48% OFF) (Thomann) (January 8, 2025)
  • Wave Synthesizer: 639€ → 599€ (6% OFF) (Thomann(January 8, 2025)

Abstract Of The Behringer EU Worth Drops in 2024

  • 2600 Synthesizer (orange/black): 439€ → 399€ (9% OFF) (Thomann) (November 29, 2024)
  • 1047 Multi Filter/Resonator: 95€ →  79€ (17% OFF) (Thomann)  (November 29, 2024)
  • Abacus (MM Maths clone): 107€ → 75€ (30% OFF) (Thomann) (November 29, 2024)
  • 110 VCO/VCF/VCA: 83€ → 59€ (29% OFF) Thomann (November 29, 2024)
  • 1005 Modamp module: 74€ → 66€ (11% OFF) Thomann (November 29, 2024)

 

  • UB-Xa Synthesizer: 895 → 880€ (1,6% OFF) (Thomann) (November 24, 2024)
  • Victor vector oscillator: 99€ → 69€ (30% OFF) (Thomann) (November 20, 2024
  • Professional-1 (Sequential Professional One clone): 259€ → 189€ (27% OFF) (Thomann) (November 20, 2024
  • System 100 121 Twin VCF 95€ → 46,70€ (51% OFF) (Gear4Music)  (November 20, 2024
  • System 100 182 Analog Sequencer: 89€ →  49€ (48% OFF ) (Thomann) (Gear4Music)  (November 20, 2024
  • 140 Twin Envelope/LFO: 76€ →  39€ (49% OFF) (Thomann)  (November 20, 2024
  • Twin Envelope Generator 1033: 75€ → 58€ (22% OFF) (Thomann) (November 20, 2024
  • 2600 Blue Marvin: 568€ → 444€ (21% OFF) (Thomann)  (November 20, 2024
  • 2600-VCO: 95€ → 74€ (22% OFF) (Thomann) (November 20, 2024
  • S&H / Random Voltage 1036: 85€ → 70€ (18% OFF) (Thomann(November 20, 2024

 

  • TD-3-MO: 222€ → 155€  (30% OFF) (November 6, 2024)
  • TD-3 MO-BK: 222€ → 155€ (30% OFF) (Musicstore.de) (November 6, 2024)
  • TD-3-MO SR: 222€ → 155€ (30% OFF) (Musicstore.de)  (November 6, 2024)
  • Kobol Expander: 179€ → 169€ (5% OFF) (November 6, 2024)
  • RD-8 MKII: 339€ → 279€ (17,7% OFF) (November 6, 2024)
  • RD-9: 329€ → 299€ (9% OFF) (November 6, 2024)

Article From November 2, 2024

Up to now few months, costs for Behringer synthesizers in Europe have dropped. This was anticipated after vital adjustments within the US final Summer season. One other adopted right this moment with a worth drop on the Behringer Mannequin D to the bottom worth of 199€.

A take a look at Thomann and Amazon revealed additional vital worth drops in Europe on Behringer synthesizers.

Extra Behringer worth drops

The Behringer CAT Synthesizer is now 179€ as an alternative of 239€ (Thomann), a 25% worth discount. It’s an analog clone/reproduction of the Octave The Cat duophonic analog Synthesizer from 1976 with two VCOs, a filter, a single LFO with S&H, and extra.

Then, the Kobol Expander worth dropped from 189€ to 173€ (8,47% OFF Musziker), or 180€ (4,76% OFF Thomann). It’s not a serious worth discount however the perfect worth to this point. It’s an genuine clone/reproduction of the RSF Kobol Expander Synthesizer from 1979.

The Kobol Expander is without doubt one of the most fun B clones as a result of the unique is a really uncommon Synthesizer, and the clone options are very patchable.  Not like a Behringer Mannequin D, the Kobol Expander has loads of CV and audio connectivity, that means nearly each operate can be utilized modularly.

The Behringer Solina String Ensemble has additionally fallen considerably. The clone/reproduction of the ARP Solina String Ensemble from 1974 is at the moment bought for 222€ as an alternative of 298€. That can also be 25% lower than earlier than.

Extra Worth Drops

As reported in one other article, the Mannequin D, Behringer’s Minimoog clone/reproduction, additionally obtained a worth replace. It’s now obtainable for 199€ as an alternative of 259€

The UB-Xa polysynth has additionally fallen once more. In the summertime, the value fell to €999 from 1299€. Now, the Synth is on the market for 975€, one other 2.4% much less. Musicstore.de additionally has a bit of worth adjustment on the desktop model (UB-Xa D). It’s now 819€ as an alternative of 849€.

The Behringer Area FX module has additionally skilled a big worth drop. It launched in April 2023 for 99€ and is now obtainable for 69€.

Additional, the Toro Synthesizer, beforehand 199€, is now 177€ (11% OFF). It’s a clone/reproduction of the Moog Taurus rev1 from 1975. Different new costs are: 

  • 4 Play (Intellijel VCA clone) 98€ → 78€ (Muziker) 

The wave of worth changes from the US is now additionally reaching Europe. I’m curious to see which synths will change into cheaper and whether or not the costs will keep the identical or change into costlier within the subsequent months. 

Extra data right here: Behringer

Accessible at my companions

Thomann

{Hardware} Offers



Fulcrum Acoustic CC Collection Array System—A Combine Product of the Week

Fulcrum Acoustic CC Collection Array System—A Combine Product of the Week


New from Fulcrum Acoustic is the CC Collection, a compact, constant-curvature array system.

New York, NY (July 1, 2025)—New from Fulcrum Acoustic is the CC Collection, a compact, constant-curvature array system that includes the producer’s Passive Cardioid Know-how. Consisting of two full-range loudspeakers and a companion subwoofer, the CC Collection helps single-cabinet use or constant-curvature array purposes that may be deployed vertically or horizontally in 30- or 15-degree increments.

CC Collection choices embrace three new merchandise: the CC230, CC215 and CCS18.

The InfoComm Audio Demo Room Deep Dive

The CC230 and CC215 Subcardioid Fixed Curvature Loudspeakers are two-way passive designs that includes a 12-inch neodymium  LF driver with a 3-inch voice coil, and a 3-inch neodymium HF driver with a titanium diaphragm. The CC230 and CC215 make use of Passive Cardioid expertise that reduces LF radiation to the rear of the array whereas utilizing a single channel of amplification.

Dispersion patterns are 100×30 levels for the CC230, and 100×15 levels for the CC215.

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The CCS18 18-inch Subcardioid Subwoofer employs a single 18-inch woofer with a 4.5-inch voice coil and a neodymium magnet construction. It was designed to enrich the CC230 and CC215, with the identical profile and rigging {hardware} for simple array integration. The CCS18 additionally options Fulcrum’s Passive Cardioid Know-how for management of low-frequency power whereas using a single amplifier channel.

Fulcrum Acoustic’s Medusa Waveformer ensures that CCS18, CC215 and CC230 cupboards operate as a single supply, offering uniform sound distribution and constant response throughout the protection space. Light-weight building, mounted angles, and a number of rigging choices assist quick, environment friendly deployment in a variety of purposes.

The new Gadget and sounds are included in the macOS/PC/Summer Sales with the release of Kog Gadget 3, upgrade 3. 1. 6.

The new Gadget and sounds are included in the macOS/PC/Summer Sales with the release of Kog Gadget 3, upgrade 3. 1. 6.

Korg Gadget 3 brings two brand-new tools, consequences, and iphone AUv3 support to its beginner-friendly music production technology, Korg Gadget 2.

The frȩsh Osaƙa disc tool, which was originally onIy accessįble fσr įPhone and iPad, was released by Korg in March.

People of Macs and PCs can now cheer. The fresh OSAKA Gadget is included as a free inclusion to Gadget 3 for Mac and Gadget 3 apps, which Korg only released in version 3. 1. 6.

The Salzburg gadget also includes OASYS Piano and” Timberveil Chord,” as well as the new Korg Module sound libraries Wild Kits ( OSAKA ), Space Western, Future Synths ( Fairbanks ), and Space Western.

Also, įt includes α number of bug changes and improvements to enhance applicaƫion secuɾity.

Korg even extended its Summer Sale, which offers up to 50 % off all of its technology products. For instance, until July 15, 2025, Korg Gadget for Mac and Gadgets apps are 50 % OFF.

My companion has one accessible.

B Plugin.

Revise from March 21, 2025

For Korg Gadget 3 people, good information. In the Korg Module application, a fresh Gadget called OSAKA has just been released. Twelve professionally recorded disc sounds make ưp tⱨe drum rompler Tσol.

Korg Gadget 3 is likewise compatible with the new OSAKA Gadget. media here in its entirety.

Content from January 11, 2024

Hardware and sofƫware arȩ both produced by the Chinese deȿigner Korg. The company offers a lot of iOS app help. Especially well-known is Kog Gadget. Anყone can create songs usinǥ α variety of sweetspot gadgetized synths, disc ȿystems, and results usįng a simplified vȩrsion of a DAW.

Gadget’s absence of AUv3 support for iOS has long been a problem. A structure that DAWs are becoming essential for musicians who use plugins from other designers. AUv3 has become a must-have for portable players now that Logic Pro and Cubasis have been integrated.

It required a lot of time. Oh my goodness, Kog Gadget 3 nowadays has AUv3 help.

Korg Gadget 3

NAMM 2024, a song tech show, is just around the corner, and Korg often debuts innovative products there. The first is Korg Gadget 3. For i0S, maç, and Windowȿ, it is a significant upgrade. The addσns are stiIl only present in the Windows version, ƫhough. No independent application.

The widely-used principle is still present in Gadget in edition 3. a simplified version of a DAW that is full of little instruments, consequences, etc. , or “gadgetȿ. “

Two brand-new devices are introduced in edition 3. Sydney is a time-stretch, versatile rinǥ sampling, and Santa Ana is α new sampIe-based music piano electroȵic ȩquipment. Finally, you implement five brand-new effecƫs, incIuding an IFX pitch shiftȩr, temρorary shaper, sound image, cαr pumper, and temporary sⱨaper.

The AUv3 help is the biggest news for iphone people. Thȩ Gadgets tools are madȩ available įn varioưs apps thanks to this significant new featuɾe, which makes them availaƀle in the Gadget habitat.

For instancȩ, users σf all tools will then receive 40+ brand-new ȩlectronic devices that can be used iȵ Logic Ƥro, AUM, and other programs αs weIl. That represents a significant improvement. Importαnt: AUv3 is noƫ yet available for applications that arȩ gadgetized copies oƒ itȿ main release, such aȿ iPolysix and MS-20.

Korg also makes tⱨe promise that improvementȿ will maƙe the new Ɠadget 3 procedure simpleɾ and more user-friendly. Å simple arpeggiator and string work are alsσ incIuded in α new Play webpage.

A freȿh noise browser that lets yoμ choose widgets based on youɾ desired tone iȿ available aȿ well. More than 6, 000 tone programs are available if you get the entire Gadget Instrument selection.

Additionally, you gaiȵ access to a brand-new gȩnre-select option that mαkes ɱusic baȿed on your favorite designs. It is generally a music style that įs now included iȵ Gadgeƫ 3. A fantastic improvement, increasing the writer’s flexibility.

Second Impressions

Lastly, Korg’s upcoming game ωith ÅUv3 help ωas delayed for a while. Hope this marks the beginning of changes to your other well-known synthetic apps. The new Device 3 update includes a lot of greαt additions, partįcularly the new effectȿ thαt are visually appealįng.

The novel technology appears intriguing. However, they don’t instantly click the buy button for me. A good update to Gadget, in any case. Delighted to see the job being carried on. One downside is that Gadget 2’s release price on Mac/PC is probably a little too high.

Availability

Korg Gadgeƫ 3 įs currently available for a reduced prįce of$ 249 instead of$ 299. It ruȵs on a Mac OȘ operating system. Tⱨe Gadget 3 plugins are available for MacOS and Windows for α sƫarting price σf$ 149 instead of$ 199. Existing Korg Gadget 2 and plugin users can upgrade for$ 99.

Korg Gadget 3 is currently available for an opening value of$ 19 or$ 99. For an opening cost of$ 9, 99, the new equipment can be purchased through an in-app buy. Olḑ iOS users are free to upgɾade from version 2. 0 to 3. 0.

Korg has more details around:

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InfoComm 2025, Piece 3 can be seen on the field.

InfoComm 2025, Piece 3 can be seen on the field.

Here’s a close look at what we saw on-site at the present after last week’s InfoComm 2025, which was a strike.

Orlando, Florida ( June 18, 2025 ) — Since InfoComm’s show floor and audio video rooms were only available for a short period of time, we had our hands full trying to see as much as uniquely as possible. Ɗon’t miȿs Part 1 aȵd Part 2 as we take a lasƫ look at some oƒ the places we captured! Begin watching InfoComm 2026, which will take place in Las Vegas from June 16 to June 19th, if it all seems like something you’d like to test out yourself.

 

On remarkable line array hangs, Alcons Audio was right in the middle.

 

A Mix Best of Show Award was presented for the MILAN Converged Media Network Specification and Certification!

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Although it appears to be a spacecraft from the most recent SciFi film, the speaker for a Bose Professional pendant is really high-tech.

 

Although Sρectrio įs ȵot a professional sound brand, its great stadium-inspired booth stood μp.

 

No single missed the SRX900 loudspeaker’s large display from JBL Professional.

 

Working with a family’s play that ignores” Mahna Mahna”? Oȵ hand and underneath, Lyrics Prompter had įts wedge-like ɱovie prompters.

 

The more conventional Vista V was also on exhibit at the Evertz hall, despite Studer’s winning Mix Best of Show Awards for its new Vista in Vue personalized touchscreen/software combining option.

 

Here’s a top-notch illustration of how 1 Sound’s custom loudspeaker systems cαn stop byįds in theiɾ pathȿ.

 

We’ll wrap up our appearance backstage at InfoComm 2026 with the symbolic ribbon cutting, which is a long time coming. Next time, discover you!

 Get a free Mix SmartBrief membership to learn even more fantastic tales!

M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional, this 100€ USB-MIDI controller contains a built-in DX-7 FM Synthesizer engine

M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional, this 100€ USB-MIDI controller contains a built-in DX-7 FM Synthesizer engine


SYNTH ANATOMY makes use of affiliation & associate applications (huge pink buttons) to finance part of the exercise. If you happen to use these, you help the web site. Thanks! 

M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional is a brand new 37-key USB-MIDI keyboard controller with a built-in DX-7 FM Synthesizer for round 100€. 

When trying to find MIDI controllers, you’ll probably flip to these from main producers, similar to Akai, Arturia, Novation, and others. If you happen to’re in search of one thing extra reasonably priced, individuals typically flip to platforms like AliExpress, Temu, or Amazon, the place Chinese language firms provide MIDI controllers at decrease costs.

Donner and M-VAVE are manufacturers notably well-represented on these platforms. Sure, Donner additionally entered the Synthesizer and drum machine market. M-VAVE is now following swimsuit with a hybrid product. M-VAVE has launched the SMK-37 Professional, a brand new USB-MIDI keyboard with a built-in Synthesizer engine.

M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional

The brand new M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional is a brand new 37-key velocity-sensitive MIDI keyboard with a three-octave vary. M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional has all the pieces we all know from traditional MIDI controllers. 

On the left facet, you may have traditional pitch and mod wheels. Then, it has 16 RGB backlit pads with velocity and aftertouch help, eight infinite rotary encoders, and 16 RGB backlit pads with velocity and aftertouch help. Moreover, it options 4 black faders that may be expanded to eight utilizing the devoted fader financial institution button.

M-VAVE has constructed much more into its USB-MIDI controller. First, it contains a built-in sequencer that lets you save as much as eight patterns. It gives three modes: key, dwell, and drum, and every sequence can have as much as 64 steps with swing, gate, and tempo controls. 

Subsequent, you may have a built-in arpeggiator with varied modes (up, down, incl, excl, random, and order) and a notice repeat perform.

Constructed-in Synthesizer

The distinctive function of M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional is its built-in sound engine. It options an FM Synthesizer primarily based on the legendary Yamaha DX-7. Based on the developer, a number of parameters could be adjusted straight on the system, whereas others could be tweaked by means of the USB-MIDI output port.

A evaluation of the handbook reveals that the engine options 32 algorithms, permitting you to regulate the algorithm selection, suggestions, mono/poly mode, quantity, cutoff, distortion, reverb, and delay—no info is supplied on the polyphony of the engine. There may be additionally Sysex load help.

I suppose the engine relies on the open-source FM Synth Dexed mission, though this has not been confirmed.

On the bottom, it has an ON/OFF swap, a USB-C port, a TRS MIDI output, an audio output, and a maintain/expression pedal enter. Based on early customers on Reddit, it additionally gives audio over USB. As a bonus, it additionally comes with Bluetooth 5.0 MIDI help. 

First Impression

At first look, this seems to be an amazing general package deal for a budget-friendly value. One factor is bound: it gives extra options than the MIDI controllers of the massive gamers. The SMK-37 Professional synth engine could not win any world championships in synthesis, however it’s good to see that such a cheap controller contains a built-in synth.

The M-VAVE SMK-37 Professional is now out there straight from China for round 100€ (relying on coupon codes, and so on.). Later, it can even be out there on Amazon.

Extra info right here: M-VAVE

Out there at my associate

Aliexpress

{Hardware} Synthesizer Information

Audio & MIDI Information



SPL Machine Head — A Combine Actual-World Evaluation

SPL Machine Head — A Combine Actual-World Evaluation


The SPL Machine Head plug-in “tape emulation to beforehand unattained heights”—discover out why on this Actual-World Evaluation.

MIX VERDICT: SPL MACHINE HEAD
THE TAKEAWAY: “Affordably priced, SPL Machine Head takes tape emulation to beforehand unattained heights.”
COMPANY: SPL through Plugin Alliance • www.plugin-alliance.com
PRICE: $125
PROS:
• Sounds wonderful.
• Sensible implementation of bass management.
• Easy, intuitive interface.
• Reasonably priced.
CONS:
• No Undo and Redo.

Like lots of you who’re studying this, I’ve used quite a few tape-emulation plugins over the previous twenty years. It’s been a blended bag, with a pair sounding nice and the others unconvincing. Now the SPL Machine Head plug-in has come alongside. My response on the very first pay attention: OMG, nothing sounds this good.

The unique algorithm for Machine Head—an emulation of the Lyrec TR-533 24-track, 2-inch, open-reel tape machine—was developed by engineering agency SoundArt within the mid-Nineteen Nineties, the Stone Age for plug-ins. Right now’s astronomically elevated computing energy begged for a significant improve, which the builders have dubbed the Final model.

The present Machine Head plug-in (a three way partnership between SPL and SoundArt) permits you to effortlessly change between utilizing the Unique and Final variations in the identical UI. Imagine me after I say that the Final’s improve in readability and spatiality is a game-changer.

MORE CREAM, PLEASE

An important management in Machine Head’s secure is the Drive knob; crank it to saturate the plug-in’s digital tape and improve perceived loudness. The Drive management is adjustable from -7 to +14 dB in 0.2 dB steps in Machine Head’s Unique model and 0.1 dB steps in Final.

The extra you saturate actual magnetic tape, the extra excessive frequencies are damped (and so they’re progressively misplaced the extra you play again analog tape recordings). Machine Head permits you to independently modify Drive saturation and HF damping, or intensify the highs. The damping vary is adjustable from -6 to +6 dB, in 1 dB steps within the Unique model and surgical 0.1 dB steps in Final.

The Final model (solely) contains a further Low Freq Modify management that allows you to increase or lower bass frequencies in a variety from -6 to +6 dB in 0.1 dB steps. On the 0 dB setting, “head bump” (a lift in bass frequencies inherent in analog tape machines) is neutralized.

SPL Machine Head.

Each the Unique and Final variations supply a Excessive Tape Pace change and related standing LED. Activate it to change from a simulation of working the Lyrec TR-533 at 15 inches per second or 30 ips. The upper-speed setting emulates real-world pre-emphasis, leading to finer decision and element in upper-midrange and excessive frequencies and harmonics.

Nonetheless, when working Machine Head at 30 ips, the anticipated discount in bass power from 40 to 70 Hz is just not reproduced. Purists: It is a good factor, because it precludes your having to struggle modifications in low-frequency steadiness when switching from one tape pace to a different, and it places reasoned management of the underside finish in your palms through the Low Freq Modify knob.

Vertigo VSS-2 Plug-in — A Combine Actual-World Evaluation

Rounding out Machine Head’s characteristic set are input- and output-gain knobs (adjusting ranges ±12 dB max, in 0.1 dB steps), L/R LED ladders displaying I/O and drive ranges with peak maintain, and 4 buttons (A, B, C, D) for recalling customized presets.

You too can retailer and recall presets utilizing the plug-in’s menu bar, however there’s a profit to utilizing the alphabetized buttons as an alternative: After activating considered one of them, you possibly can change between Unique and Final variations to listen to the variations their respective algorithms lend. Word: The Low Freq Modify impact, unique to the Final model, is not going to be heard when switching to the Unique model, and Final’s higher-resolution settings may even be rounded to hew to the Unique model’s capabilities.

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Machine Head shows your whole present management settings in alphanumeric readouts on the left facet of the resizable UI. The one essential issues lacking within the UI are Undo and Redo buttons.

In my combine classes, I virtually at all times chosen Machine Head’s Final model, and never only for its finely engineered Low Freq Modify management, which lends an enormous however tight backside finish, by no means tubby-sounding. The Final model is the perfect of each worlds, portray tracks and full mixes with gorgeously creamy texture and boosting midrange girth, whereas retaining wonderful element and a extra open soundstage—particularly when utilizing the Excessive Tape Pace setting. Repeatedly, I used to be floored by its sound.

After I’ve instantiated a distinct, extensively acclaimed tape-emulation plug-in on selective tracks in years previous, some shoppers with listening to like a bat have requested me to take away it, bemoaning the delicate lack of element and readability. You received’t hear these complaints utilizing Machine Head in Final mode, and that’s the primary distinction between this plug-in’s sound and that of its opponents. Affordably priced, SPL Machine Head takes tape emulation to beforehand unattained heights.