In the realm of virtual synthesizers, Softube® has consistently impressed musicians and producers with their innovative and authentic software instruments. Among their impressive offerings, the Softube® Model 80™ softsynth stands out as a meticulously crafted emulation of a legendary vintage synthesizer. This software instrument pays homage to the iconic sounds of the 1980s, offering users a remarkable sonic palette filled with nostalgia and creative potential. In this article, we delve into the depths of the Softube® Model 80™ softsynth, exploring its features, strengths, and weaknesses.

Capturing the Essence of a Classic:

The Softube® Model 80™ softsynth faithfully emulates the iconic sounds of a revered synthesizer from the 1980s, capturing the essence of that era’s electronic music. It meticulously emulates the original hardware’s oscillators, filters, envelopes, and modulation capabilities, ensuring that users can experience the same sonic characteristics and unique timbres that made the original instrument a favorite among musicians.

Intuitive Interface and Workflow:

Softube® is renowned for its user-friendly interfaces, and the Model 80™ softsynth is no exception. The plugin’s intuitive layout allows users to easily navigate and access its various features, making sound design and experimentation a breeze. The well-designed interface provides comprehensive control over the synth’s parameters, enabling users to shape their sounds with precision and creativity.

Vintage Analog Sound Palette:

One of the standout features of the Softube® Model 80™ softsynth is its ability to reproduce the warm and rich analog sound that made vintage synthesizers so sought after. The oscillators deliver thick and lush waveforms, capable of producing fat basses, soaring leads, and lush pads. The filters accurately recreate the classic low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass filter types, adding depth and character to the sound palette. Additionally, the onboard chorus and ensemble effects allow users to infuse their sounds with the signature lushness and shimmer that defined the 1980s synth-pop era.

Modulation and Sound Sculpting:

The Softube® Model 80™ softsynth offers a wide range of modulation options, allowing users to sculpt their sounds with depth and movement. The synth features multiple envelopes and LFOs, which can be easily assigned to various parameters, including filter cutoff, pitch, and amplitude. This extensive modulation routing capability opens up a world of possibilities for creating evolving textures, dynamic sequences, and intricate soundscapes.

Advanced Arpeggiator and Sequencer:

A notable highlight of the Softube® Model 80™ softsynth is its powerful built-in arpeggiator and sequencer. With an array of pattern options, including up, down, random, and chord modes, users can quickly generate intricate arpeggios and rhythmic patterns. The ability to sync the arpeggiator to the host tempo ensures tight integration with other elements of a production, making it a valuable tool for composers, electronic musicians, and sound designers alike.

Pros:

Authentic emulation of a legendary vintage synthesizer, capturing the essence of the 1980s electronic music era.
User-friendly interface and intuitive workflow, allowing for efficient sound design and experimentation.
Reproduction of warm and rich analog sounds, delivering thick basses, soaring leads, and lush pads.
Extensive modulation options, enabling users to create dynamic and evolving textures.
Powerful built-in arpeggiator and sequencer for generating intricate rhythmic patterns.
High-quality effects, including chorus and ensemble, adding depth and dimension to the sound.
Cons:

Limited to the sound characteristics and capabilities of the original vintage synthesizer, which may not suit all musical genres or preferences.
Requires a moderate to advanced level of synthesis knowledge to fully utilize its potential.
While the interface is user-friendly, beginners may find it overwhelming due to the multitude of parameters and options available.

The Softube® Model 80™ softsynth stands as a remarkable tribute to the golden age of synthesizers. Its faithful emulation of a legendary vintage instrument, combined with its intuitive interface and powerful sound-shaping capabilities, make it an attractive choice for musicians and producers looking to infuse their music with the warmth and nostalgia of the 1980s. With its authentic analog sound palette, versatile modulation options, and integrated arpeggiator and sequencer, the Softube® Model 80™ softsynth provides a powerful tool for those seeking to explore and expand their sonic horizons. While it may not cater to every musical style or skill level, its strengths make it a compelling addition to any virtual instrument collection.

Compatibility

Model 80™ is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or 11, and Macs running macOS 11 or higher. VST, VST3, AU and AAX versions are available, and users will require both a Softube® and iLok® account.

Pricing & Availability

Model 80™ is available now, and is being offered for an introductory price of $99 until 2 June 2023, after which it will increase to $159.