Quadral 3 is the latest version of Soundiron’s versatile Kontakt-based synthesis engine, which promises to be an ideal solution for film and game composers who need to work quickly whilst maintaining their creative spark. With the upgrade, the company have kitted out the already capable instrument with a range of new features and functionality such as new wavetables and support for user-imported samples.
The instrument’s interface is divided into four quadrants centred around an assignable X/Y pad. Each of the four sections can be loaded with a sample, all of which can then be triggered at the same time. Independent settings are provided for every layer, with parameters such as attack, release, offset, pitch and pan joined by an arpeggiator and a filter with 39 variants.
By default, the XY pad is used to adjust the relative levels between the instrument’s four layers, but it can also be assigned to functions such as effects parameters or filter settings. It is also possible to add tempo-synced rhythmic effects which automatically modulate the pad, and limit the range of either axis to create new patterns and variations. There are also a wide range of built-in effects, including a convolution reverb equipped with over 100 real-world and special effects spaces.
The instrument’s ARP system facilitates the creation of dynamic arpeggiator, gliss and strum patterns, and provides control over functions such as rhythm, direction and swing, as well as a randomisation feature designed to quickly create new ideas and variations. A Legato feature with variable pitch-bend makes it possible to create monophonic legatos and portamentos, and a set of macro controls allow multiple parameters to be grouped together and modulated simultaneously.
Over 300 presets divided into six categories are included, and are presented in a dedicated browser so that they can be easily navigated. With the release of the latest version, users can also now import their own WAV files for use alongside the built-in sounds and wavetables, allowing for even deeper customisation of patches.
Compatibility
Quadral 3 requires the full version of Native Instrument’s Kontakt version 6.2.2 or higher, which is supported on PCs running Windows 7 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.12 and later. It will not run in the free Kontakt Player.
Pricing & Availability
Quadral 3 is available now, priced at $59.
