The first workstation synthesizer, released in 1988, which defined the sound of the late ’80s and early ’90s: M1.
Along with its innovative “workstation” concept, the M1’s “AI” (Advanced Integrated) synthesis system used PCM waveforms and digital effects to deliver fully complete program and combination sounds. As a pioneer of PCM tone generation, it was notable not just for the reality of its sound, but also for the distinctive resonance and tonal character that demonstrated the high level of Korg’s voicing technology. Numerous sounds available only from the M1, most notable the famous “M1 Piano” sound, were taken up by musicians and producers around the world, and are still in use today.
The software features filter resonance, VDA modulation, and master effects that have been powered up to a total of 18 systems. It provides all of the PCM, Program, and Combination data found in the original M1 and the M1EX internal PCM expansion, plus the PCM data and Program/Combination data from all nineteen optional ROM cards.What’s more, in addition to all 19 types of the PCM ROM cards for the M1, the sound of the M1EX which was released as an expansion of the M1’s built-in PCM, as well as the sounds of the T-series, which advanced the M1. It is equipped with extensive sounds, including 33,000 preset sounds and 34 cards.
U-he Diva captures the spirit of five decades of analogue synthesizers. Oscillators, filters, and envelopes from some of the greatest monophonic and polyphonic synths of yesteryear were meticulously modelled for unmatched analogue sound. More than a single synthesizer: Recreate an old favourite or mix-and-match modules to design your unique hybrid.
U-he Diva in the spotlight…
Authentic, award-winning analogue sound
Mix-and-match panels for custom layouts
Per-voice oscillator detune and user-definable modulation source
Zero delay feedback (ZDF) filter design for authentic resonance behaviour
3 ADS(S)R envelope models based on classic synth hardware with keyboard follow and velocity scaling
5 oscillators models based on classic synth hardware
5 filter models based on classic synth hardware
2 host-syncable LFOs with multiple waveforms, restart options and phase controls
2 stereo effects slots, each with chorus (3 modes), phaser (2 modes), plate reverb, delay, rotary speaker
Host-syncable arpeggiator with continuous rate offset, swing, various progression options
MIDI learn page and editable list
Resizable UI from 70% to 200%
Over 1200 factory presets
U-he Diva captures the spirit of various analogue synthesizers by letting the user select from a variety of alternative modules. The oscillators, filters and envelopes closely model components found in some of the greatest monophonic and polyphonic synthesizers of yesteryear. But what sets DIVA apart from other emulations is the sheer authenticity of her analogue sound. This comes at the cost of quite a high CPU-hit, but we think it was worth it: Diva is the first native software synth that applies methods from industrial circuit simulators in realtime.
Oscillators and Filters
The filters are at the heart of Diva’s analogue sound. A combination of realtime circuit simulation and zero delay feedback (ZDF) design gives Diva its remarkable sound. With ZDF, the delays normally produced when modelling analogue circuits are vastly reduced, resulting in a much more authentic resonance behaviour. (If you are interested, Urs wrote an in-depth blog post Link about ZDF.)
U-he Diva models five different filters found in classic hardware synthesizers. All filters have modulation options and the traditional cutoff and resonance controls, but each has its character, quirks and options.
Like the filters, Diva’s oscillators are also modelled on classic hardware. The five models offer a wide range of different characteristics that fundamentally affect the overall sound, giving you a broad palette to start with for your next riff, bass and pad.
All five share common controls: waveform selection, octave range, mix or independent output volume controls, a noise source and plentiful modulation options. Plus a few touches unique to each model.
Effects and envelopes
Oscillators and filters get your sound humming, but a little polish and refinement make it sing.
Switching oscillators and filters on or off like an organ would be very limiting. Envelopes provide more nuanced and engaging results. Diva has two slots—one dedicated to the amplifier, the other to the filter—both with three models to choose from. Craft gently rising sounds, notes that fade slowly into the distance, or sharp percussion.
As a final touch you can put Diva’s two stereo effects slots to use. In keeping with the vintage feel, the available effects would be right at home in the studios of bygone days. Add space with the plate reverb and delay, or movement with the phaser, chorus and rotary speaker effects.
U-he Diva 1.4.3 (revision 7422)
Bug fixes:
Mac only: Crash when loading plugin, due to missing write permissions
Mac only: Crash if a symlink pointed to an external drive
Some issues in preset browser when creating or duplicating folders
Requirements
1GB RAM, more recommended
50MB free disk space
1000 × 600 or larger display
Modern CPU (Sandy Bridge or newer recommended)
Host software
Formats
Diva is not a standalone product, it requires host software. Diva is compatible with nearly all DAWs.
Available as Audio Units (AU), VST2, VST3, AAX (Pro Tools 10.3.7 or later) NKS, plug-ins with 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Presswerk v1.1.4.8347 is more than an emulation of a single hardware compressor. Like Satin, Presswerk is a toolkit, drawing ideas and inspiration from a number of sources. It starts with warmth of classic analogue units and adds features only possible in the digital realm. The result is a powerful compressor with a rich feature set and a very musical soul.
Presswerk in the spotlight…
6 special views for better workflow: Easy, Vocal, Drum, Bus, M/S and Limiter
Capable of internal sidechaining, with bipolar delay, low cut and high cut filters (6 or 12dB per octave)
Internal parallel (New York) compression
M/S mode
Skinnable UI
Over 120 factory presets for common compression tasks
Presswerk is a powerful dynamics processor with a musical soul. An easy-to-use interface and a rich feature set give you hands-on control over all details of your sound. It doesn’t emulate famous compressors, it blends the warmth of classic hardware models with developments that are only possible in the digital domain.
Presswerk has all the features you expect in a compressor…
Sidechaining: Use ducking to create more space in your mixes, or get creative with keying and pumping effects. Note: For help on how to get Presswerk sidechained in your DAW, please read these instructions compiled by our KVR forum members.
Adjustable compression curve and envelope: Find the best settings, get the most out of your audio using the soft knee, compression ratio, attack and release and other controls.
Loud: Oh yes, Presswerk is more than capable of making your tracks louder.
Soft clip: Roll off those harsh peaks and avoid distortion when output levels get too high.
Presswerk 1.1.4 (revision 8347)
Bug fixes:
Fixed latency compensation in Cubase (now works on host start/stop)
Fixed latency compensation issue with plugin bypass
Fixed latency compensation issue with side chain monitoring
Fixed Limiter View punchy mode DPR being wrongly switched off when going back to Main View
Mac installer improved to prevent permission issues
Requirements
1GB RAM, more recommended
50MB free disk space
1000 × 600 or larger display
Modern CPU (Sandy Bridge or newer recommended)
Host software
Formats
Presswerk is not a standalone product, it requires host software. & it is compatible with nearly all DAWs.
Available as Audio Units (AU), VST2, VST3, AAX (Pro Tools 10.3.7 or later) NKS, plug-ins with 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Compact, clear, a careful selection of modules and semi-modular architecture makes ACE v1.4.0.3898 easy to learn. Simple but not simplistic. Compact but not limited. Clear but definitely not underpowered. With the ability to connect any output into any input, ACE is a powerful synth with tools and features ready for beginners or seasoned users.
ACE v1.4.0.3898 Features:
Semi-modular architecture (with default routing)
Oscillators include pulse width modulation (PWM), sync, internal ring and cross modulation (FM)
Polyphonic (up to 16 voices), duophonic or monophonic (retriggered or legato)
Powerful glide options: constant rate or constant time, percentage range control, per-oscillator offset
Up to 8 voice unison (stack) with +/−2 octave
2 multimode analogue-style filters
2 ADSR envelopes with fall/rise, snap, singing option for authentic analogue-style voice triggering
2 LFOs with 0Hz to 20kHz frequency range (can be used as VCOs)
2 multiplex modules for signal mixing / crossfading, ring modulation, amplitude modulation etc.
1 syncable and loopable ramp generator
Mixer with modulation inputs
MIDI modulation and performance: wheels, velocity, pressure, key follow, gate, 2 user-definable MIDI CC
Circuit bending options: slop, crosstalk, oscillator cap failure
The “boxes and cables” philosophy of modular synthesizers gives you the freedom to create your own custom instruments. Once you start connecting the sixteen modules in ACE—exploring new combinations, cross-pollinating ideas—the vast potential of modular soon becomes clear.
ACE 1.4 (revision 3898)
Bug fixes:
Fixed cable style bug
New features and improvements:
Improved UI
New modulation sources
Requirements
1GB RAM, more recommended
50MB free disk space
1000 × 600 or larger display
Modern CPU (Sandy Bridge or newer recommended)
Host software
ACE v1.4.0.3898 is not a standalone product, it requires host software. ACE is compatible with nearly all DAWs.
Available as Audio Units (AU), VST2, AAX (Pro Tools 10.3.7 or later) plug-ins with 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
MFM2 is an ultra-flexible delay unit. Manipulate, shape, modulate and filter to create subtle textures or wild tonal and rhythmic deconstructions. MFM2 offers as much control and inspiration as possible in a delay effect and the advanced options push things even further. More feedback, more control, more inspiration.
MFM2 highlights…
4 delay lines with independent absolute time or tempo-synced modes
2 channel effects, each with distortion, bit crusher, phaser, frequency shifter or filter
Scalable UI from 70% to 200%
Skinnable UI
Over 380 presets
MFM2 can do…
Ping-pong delay (no central tap)
Ducking delays
Chorus, flanging, resonance
reverbs and other ambiences
panning delays
frequency-shifted delays
Degrading & distorting delays
Filtered delays
Endless loops
All sorts of compressed delays
Keyboard-controlled (tuned) comb filter
Massive glitch effects
Any combination of the above
…and much more
Requirements
1GB RAM, more recommended
50MB free disk space
1000 × 600 or larger display
Modern CPU (Sandy Bridge or newer recommended)
Host software
MFM2 is not a standalone product, it requires host software. MFM2 is compatible with nearly all DAWs.