After a 16-year hiatus, Absynth is making a comeback, and it's more eccentric than ever! This iconic soft synth, first released in 2000, quickly became a favorite among computer musicians. But its journey hasn't been without challenges. Native Instruments discontinued it in 2022 due to resource constraints, leaving fans wondering if they'd ever see its return. And now, the wait is over! Absynth is back with version 6, and it's here to make waves.
The essence of Absynth remains intact. It's still a powerhouse semi-modular virtual instrument with multiple synthesis engines and a vast modulation playground. From traditional subtractive synthesis with countless waveforms to FM, sample players, and granular synthesis, Absynth 6 offers it all. But here's where it gets controversial: its envelope system. With up to 68 points, Absynth's envelopes go far beyond the standard ADSR or DAHDSR, offering looping, single-shot, and time-synced options. This feature alone sets it apart from other heavyweights like Omnisphere, Serum, Pigments, and Massive X.
Absynth's unique charm lies in its ability to create evolving soundscapes. Native Instruments describes it as 'weird by design,' and they're not wrong. Its factory presets are not your typical sci-fi or horror film scores; they're all about texture and atmosphere. Ambient music producers and score composers will find Absynth 6 an irresistible addition to their toolkit. And with support for up to eight-channel surround sound, it's a cinematic dream come true.
Version 6 introduces MPE support, adding another layer of expressiveness to its complex sounds. This feature allows for dynamic control over filters, oscillators, and granular effects based on touch pressure and finger movements on compatible controllers. Imagine highlighting the highest notes in a chord progression while keeping the root note subdued—MPE makes it possible.
The AI-assisted preset explorer is a game-changer, but it's not without its critics. While it organizes presets by vibe, making it easier to find unique sounds, some users may find it challenging to keep track of auditioned presets. It's a love-or-hate feature, and we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Absynth 6 is priced at $199 for new users, with a special upgrade price of $99 for existing Absynth 5 owners. So, are you ready to dive into the world of Absynth and explore its endless possibilities? The synth community is buzzing with excitement, and we can't wait to hear what you create with this legendary instrument's latest iteration.
