Xtreme Analog

Sample Library

Published in SOS February 2002
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Reviews : Sample / Sound / Song Library
 

EXS24/EXP24 CD-ROM

Xtreme Analog is a CD-ROM sample library specifically designed for the Emagic EXS24 and EXP24 software samplers (EXP24 is the VST version). It sets out to provide emulations of true analogue synthesizers, via the use of waveform samples and the filtering, envelope and modulation capabilities of EXS24 itself. However, rather than being restricted to single-oscillator waveforms, Xtreme Analog also includes layered oscillators, PWM waveforms, phase sync and FM samples.

A simple install routine copies the samples to your computer's hard drive, where they are conveniently presented as a series of sub-menus from within EXS/P24, categorised as Bass, Lead/Hooks, Pads/Strings/Spectrum SQ, SQ + Percussive, Sweep + FX and Synthcomp + Brass sounds. There's also an 'All Category Best' section, featuring the designer's 44 favourites from all the sections. In all, there are 217 sound sets and the instruments that have been emulated include the Oberheim Matrix 12/Expander, the Roland Jupiter 8, the Solina string machine and a selection of classic monosynths.

There are people who insist that you can't get the authentic analogue sound from samples — they say you need to use modelled oscillators, but even if this is true at a technical level, Xtreme Analog sounds stand up very well when judged on artistic merit. In particular, the soft analogue pads and strings are genuinely warm and lush, while the bass sounds have lots of depth and movement. By contrast, the leads are fat and authoritative, and the phase-sync sounds literally scream. There's also some clever dynamic programming that uses velocity to change the sample start time, which makes certain sounds seem even more responsive, though the warmth of the sounds is also a testimony to the quality of the EXS/P24 filters. In fact the only aspect of this collection that I don't think works is the title! Xtreme Analog suggests something — well, extreme, I suppose. Then again, perhaps calling the collection Analogue Synth Emulations Sensibly Chosen To Be Eminently Usable In A Musical Context wouldn't have had the same impact. Nevertheless, that is pretty much what you get — a grab bag containing pretty much all the classic analogue synth sounds you're likely to need, plus a few oddball ones for good measure. If you're an EXS/P24 user and have a penchant for rich analogue sounds, Xtreme Analog won't disappoint — unless you're expecting something really extreme! Paul White

£49.99 including VAT.
Sound Technology
+44 (0)1462 480000.
+44 (0)1462 480800.
Click here to email
www.soundtech.co.uk

Published in SOS February 2002

 

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