reFX, the company behind the popular Nexus and Vanguard2 soft synths have announced the launch of their latest instrument, Rippler. Offering a combination of physical modelling and subtractive synthesis, the new arrival is capable of emulating acoustic instruments both real and imagined, and comes packed with an array of modulation capabilities and built-in effects.
Rippler features a pair of independent layers that are each equipped with a pair of Resonator modules and two oscillators. The former can be loaded with 12 physical models that emulate everything from strings and drum heads to plates and tubes, and it’s possible to create interactions between the Resonator modules to craft continuously evolving soundscapes. The latter then features a set of familiar waveforms, allowing the instrument’s physical modelling to be augmented with more traditional synthesis — the oscillators are joined by a pair of multi-mode filters.
Modulation is comprehensive, with every parameter capable of being targeted by the likes of envelopes and LFOs. Linking sources and destinations is carried out via a simple drag-and-drop system, and all connections benefit from custom response curves, offering precise control over how each parameter is animated. Rippler also offers full support for MPE, meaning every note is treated to its own pitch-bend, pressure and slide control. There’s also a large collection of onboard effects, with 12 effects available per layer and 13 available for the instrument’s master bus.
Key Features
- Dual-Layer physical modelling synthesizer plus traditional synth oscillators and filters.
- 441 Presets (Factory Bank July 2026).
- Exciter with custom impulse, 32 samples, sample import or side-chain input.
- Noise generator feeds into resonators, output or both.
- 12 Acoustic-style resonator models: String, Beam, Squared, Bell, Membrane, Plate, Drumhead, Djembe, Vibraphone, Marimba, Open Tube, Closed Tube.
- Manual resonator type for custom additive synthesis (change partials in frequency and level, and drag to 'paint' your pattern.
- Resonators work in series or parallel, with bi-directional energy coupling.
- Dual oscillators with Phase, Fold and Asymmetry parameters.
- 27 Filter types including vintage, ladder and vowel.
- Modulation from four LFOs, four envelopes, random generators, MIDI/MPE controllers, macros.
- 13 Effects in three chains (Layer A, Layer B, Master): EQ, Distortion, Stereoizer, Phaser, Compressor, Chorus, Magnetic, Tremolo, Delay, Bucket Delay, Reverb, Particle, Limiter.
- Vibrato with Rate, Delay and Rise controls.
- Arpeggiator with additional modifiers for pitch and velocity.
- Modulation Matrix with custom mapping curves, power curve.
- Preset Browser with Favorites and Type tags, random selection.
Compatibility
Rippler is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or later, and Macs running macOS 10.13 and higher. VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Rippler is available now, and is being offered at an introductory price of $99 until 13 September 2026, increasing to $129 thereafter.
