KVR Audio is the Internet's number one news and information resource for open standard audio plugins. We report new releases, product announcements and product updates (major and minor) for all VST Plugins, DirectX Plugins and Audio Units Plugins. We manage a fully searchable audio plugin database (updated daily), and offer many free member services including user reviews, product update notifications and a very active discussion forum. We also host official support forums for many plugin developers plus the official Receptor support forum.
Plug-in Database: Virtual
Instruments, Effects & Hosts
Banks & Patches
Download & Upload
Plug-in Ratings
by KVR Members
Wiki: Tutorials,
Audio Lexicon, ...
Listen to Music
by KVR Members
Search
KVR
Quick
Links

Google Powered Search:

in new window

KVR Powered Plug-in Search:

M42 Nebula
by AlgoMusic
31 members are watching M42 Nebula for news
Product M42 Nebula
Developer AlgoMusic
Primary Type Synth (Hybrid)
Price (MSRP) $49.95 (Bundle)
Plug-in Formats
Instrument(s)VST
Operating System Availability
Operating
System
Latest
Version
Download Is it
Available?
Windows 2.0 Demo / TrialReleased
Miscellaneous Information
Copy Protection Unknown
Average User Rating Average rating - 9.187
Known to work
advertisement
Sound Forge 9
M42 Nebula

Combining algorithmic rhythmic elements, giant pad and space sounds which can be manipulated in real time, as well as a unique warp function, the M42 brings the quality of virtual instruments to a new level. The M42 is named after the great nebula located in the constellation of Orion.

Features

  • Two synths, each with 4 mode filter, 2 envelope generators, LFO, Pulsar  and a complex modulation matrix. 
  • Synth 1 (DCO) is a virtual analog synth with 5 different waveforms :triangle, saw, square, pulse1, pulse2. It can be independently tuned from synth 2.
  • Synth 2 (SFO) is a sample oscillator with 5 different types of pad sounds: Fantasy, Analog, Strings, Vintage, and Voices. Both have mono-modes with legato settings and portamento.
  • Two unique modules: The Pulsar and Arpeggiator which when run together can create complex rhythms and arpeggiation effects. The arpeggiator is very different from the usual arpeggiators as it receives its waveform structure from the LFO and is not dependent on chords played on the keyboard. The Pulsar creates rhythms as well as a sample hold generator. All are synced to the host BPM. This design was inspired by Klaus Shultz's timeless electronic music piece called "Totem".
  • Effects section includes stereo chorus, BPM synced X-delay, auto-panner, and mixer.
  • Warp module: X-Y joystick with a unique distortion-filter for warping sounds and creating distortion and lead effects.
  • 128 presets programmed by Tim Conrardy (a leading sound designer).
Made with SynthEdit

User Reviews by KVR Members for M42 Nebula.

CLICK HERE TO ADD YOUR REVIEW


By woolyloach
On 11th December 2004
Version: 1.11

Read all reviews by
woolyloach


2 of 3 people found
this review helpful.

Was this review
helpful to you?
Yes | No
  GUI
Sound
Features
Docs
Presets
Support
VFM
Stability
I occasionally verge into the space-music/new-age genre, and it's hard to find a software synth that covers this territory - sure, I could use a beefier synth and work it over with a bazillion effects, but my CPU hates me already.. enter Algomusics M42 Nebula.

All the technical details have been discussed, so I'll focus on what's important to me.. the sounds, and the range of presets (since I'm not a sound designer). This review is for the latest 1.11 release.

The sound vary from long, slowly evolving pads to lead sounds and rhythmic sounds.. the pads are to die for, the lead sounds are decent and the rhythmic sounds are a major treat. I've found that layering M42 with a rhythmic patch over another synth playing long sustained notes can give you all the trippy space sound you'd ever need in life.

The presets are mostly excellent, I have no complaints at all - just about everything is eminently useable. The only bad thing I can say about it, is that for my music I'd not use it solo as a lead synth as it (to my ears) isn't "beefy" enough.

I've had no problems with M42 in either of my hosts, Orion Platinum 5.8 and Tracktion 1.6. CPU useage is pretty good, even on my now-ancient P4 2.53GHz box.

Value for money? This thing is cheap, buy it already! I've spent more on beer during a serious night out and had less fun! :-p

Summary: it's not an end-all/be-all synth, but for spacey sounds, rhythmmic pulsations, and being an EXCELLENT synth for stacking it can't be beat!
 
   Report

By carrieres
On 9th December 2004
Version: 1.1

Read all reviews by
carrieres


1 of 1 people found
this review helpful.

Was this review
helpful to you?
Yes | No
  GUI
Sound
Features
Docs
Presets
Support
VFM
Stability
it is a long time that i want to write a review and i encouraged other customer to do one, but i didn't take the time.
and begins the polemic about SE synth and review.
i was agree with some critics but whatever you think, this synth need to be PLAYED on a keyboard and you will understand why there is such a big buzz or maybe you will not believe what you heard, how a small SE synth can be so good and so cheap ?
this synth prouve that with two litle synth, ( 1 DCO and a soundfont player), one chorus and a delay you can have a LOT of fun.
i have to correct something, when i said play on a keyboard, it does NOT mean that you need to be master with 7 years of practice, it's the contrary with one finger you are blown in the deep space of sound.
with the 1.1 version the interface has been shrinked to a very reasonnable size.
another great update is the selectable soundfont, you can load your own soundfont carefully crafted in your bigger and very expensive synth !!!
i just want to try this, it's look like a dream
i give a bad rating on stability issue just because SE synth and Orion are not very friendly.
One crash was when i was looking for the automation of the warp module and i swaped between automation type vst parameter and midi CC while running.
i want to add that i played this synth only with orion platinum 5.8 (the only hosts i use) and that M42 nebula is my first vsti purchase (i immediately fall in love)
i will repeat, just try it with your keyboard even your computer keyboard !!!
 
Last edited by carrieres on 10th December 2004    Report

By AndreasE
On 22nd September 2004
Version: 1.0

Read all reviews by
AndreasE


0 of 4 people found
this review helpful.

Was this review
helpful to you?
Yes | No
  GUI
Sound
Features
Docs
Presets
Support
VFM
Stability
If you like spacey/ambient/pad sounds, then M42 Nebula is the instrument to do this. You can produce a wide range of evolving and rhythmic sounds. The presets are showing this very good.

User Interface is nice but a little bit confusing, but the manual is describing all in a good manner.

Customer Support and Value For Money are outstanding and this synth never crashed on my machine.

I really have no serious complaints about this synth.
 
   Report

By x_bruce
On 20th September 2004
Version: 1.x

Read all reviews by
x_bruce


2 of 5 people found
this review helpful.

Was this review
helpful to you?
Yes | No
  GUI
Sound
Features
Docs
Presets
Support
VFM
Stability
M42 Nebula was the the first SynthEdit creation that really convinced me the platform had come of age. Except for some extreme individuals the following will be true; M42 is a wonderful, advanced pad and spacy sound synth.

Based on a soundfont oscillator and traditional oscillator through a signal chain of digital oscillator to filter, to amplitude filter, to mod envelope and into the interesting stuff - the LFO, Pulsar (a specialized arpeggiator) and finishing with a mod matrix. Replace the DCO on oscillaor 2 and put a soundfont front-end with nicely selected samples and followed by a effects engine featuring chorus, cross delay, pan controller, synth mixer and finally, the warp control which enables you to program functions to a x/y controller. Not to be forgotten, the global section allows for splits, layers and variable pitch control per oscillator.

I often have concerns about soundfonts. It's not that the format is bad, more that most sets I've heard are not well designed and often are a hodgepodge of sounds made as a "thrilling experience of REAL sounds". Fortunately, the set included with M42 are chosen for use within M42's thematic standard with high quality samples that bring out the most in M42's design.

Don't forget the non-sampled oscillator. It also has lots of character and a quality that lends itself to evocative sounds. Combined with the generous soundfont library and the modulations, arpeggiations and general synthesis capabilities available in M42 it is a testimant to good synth design.

More importantly, there is vision as to what a pad synth does. M42 is based on proven techniques in synth design with one hidden weapon, a generous set of presets by Tim Conrardy. In it's own way Tim's programming and mastery of M42 Nebula make this similar within context to synths like Albino, where a developer works in concert with a synth designer and sound programmer make for a synergism that makes learning and playing M42 Nebula vastly easier than the wealth of controls available.

At $45 this is a steal if:
* you actually enjoy pads, spacy sounds and overall capability in synthesis
* keep an open mind as to what this synth's purpose is
if you long for the synths of old where all sounds seemed possible and probably were

If a more established company's name was on it the price of $99 wouldn't be unexpected nor unreasonable. At $45 it's a killer synth.

I put M42 Nebula in the same special catagory of synths like Rhino, Albino or z3ta+. Yes, each is a monster synth whereas M42 is more focused on one area but it is priced suitably and is testimate to what a motivated SE developer and excellent patch designer can do when working together.

Note: M42 is not a harsh sounding synth and as such might not work for those looking to do industrial. Listen before buying. The demo is very good and will give you a good idea of what awaits you in the full version.

Highly recommeded!
 
   Report

By gnu23
On 1st June 2004
Version: 1.0

Read all reviews by
gnu23


3 of 4 people found
this review helpful.

Was this review
helpful to you?
Yes | No
  GUI
Sound
Features
Docs
Presets
Support
VFM
Stability
The M42 Nebula from Algomusic is the brightest star in my softsynth arsenal. From rich strings to deep, evoloving pads, it's all here. Dr. Ambient's programming and Tim Conrardy's sound design have combined to make one of those rare "it doesn't get any better than this" moments.

The GUI is large by intent, making all of the settings available in one workspace. The flow is logical, left-to-right.

The sound of the M42 is astounding for a product at its price point. It is comprised of two independent synths - a virtual analog synth and a SoundFont playback synth that uses a pre-made SoundFont bank as its base. Each synth has its own DCF, DCA, MOD EG, LFO (with Arpeggiator), "Pulsar" (rhythm generator w/Sample & Hold) and Modulation matrix controls. The Arpeggiator and Pulsar sync to host BPM. The virtual analog synth can be tuned independently of the SoundFont synth. Each synth has a mono-mode with legato and portamento available. A Global section contains settings common to both synths such as channel, bend, vibrato, and split ranges, however, each synth again can be set independently of the other. Output effects include stereo chorus and delay, a panner, and a mixer. The final effect is an X-Y controller called "Warp", which activates a distortion/filter effect. The Warp X-Y values can be controlled via MIDI CC 12(X) and 13(Y). That is not to say these are the only CC's recognized - the well-written documentation also includes a CC Map that covers access parameters to all important settings in each synth bank.

The independence of each synth allows one to be used while the other is muted. Each is certainly capable of producing good sounds - but the fun really begins when the two are played together. Throw in tempo-synched arpeggiation if you want it and/or the Pulsar and soundscapes can evolve from very simple beginnings to rich and beautiful complexities. The factory patch bank supplied by Tim Conrardy plumbs the full range of the M42's sonic capability, but by no means exhausts what is possible.

Customer support is good - both developers regularly post on the K-v-R forums and as I mentioned previously, the user manual is well-written and easy to understand. Truth is, M42 has never crashed on me in any host I have used it in, so outside of new feature suggestions, you are quite likely not to need support at all.

In terms of value for money, well let's just say the VFM meter pegs hard right.

The M42 Nebula is a bravura debut by Algomusic. Try the demo. You won't be disappointed.


Edits: Spelling corrections
 
Last edited by gnu23 on 1st June 2004    Report
Latest 5 reviews from a total of 6 - Click here to read them all

Reviews, articles, interviews, etc. for M42 Nebula.

None listed yet.

Products by AlgoMusic

Product: AlgonN
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Hybrid)
Price: $49.95 (Bundle)
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
AlgoN was developed as a sketch board for AlgoMusic's algorithmic ideas which developed into the current version of the M42 Nebula. If you purchase M42 you will receive AlgoN free. Features include: 2 separate synths, each with: 1 oscillator with multiple waveforms including two types of noise.A low pass filter.2 LFOs.2 envelope generators.Multiple modulation routings.A rhythm grid.Algorithmic scale generator to enable ever changing sequences with user scale selection.Stereo panning for each synth.Split keyboard capacity.Reverb.X-Y BPM synced delays. AlgoN comes with 128 presets by sound desi... [more]

 
Product: AMB ElectraBass
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Hybrid)
Price: $35 / €26
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
ElectraBass focuses on Bass and Leads with a futuristic sound. Along with 4 different effects, a unique 32 stage sequencer allows you to input your own bass and lead lines with ease. Features: 2 Harmonic oscillators offering 11 waveforms each with phase modulation, ring modulation, sync and a noise oscillator. Complex filter with 13 types of filters and x-y grid for cutoff and resonance. 8 dedicated envelopes to selected targets with 7 types of velocity curves. 2 BPM synced LFOs with phase modulation. Portamento with re-triggering, pitch bend amount, MIDI channel select and master BPM. ... [more]

 
Product: Arpy
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Analogue / Subtractive)
Price: Free
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
Arpy is a virtual analogue plugin that is described as a "Groove Generator". Features: Unison Oscillator with selectable number of voices. Arpeggiator. Synced LFOs. Delay Unit. Presets by Tim Conrardy. ... [more]

 
Product: Atomic
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Step Sequencer Synth
Price: $39.99
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
Atomic is a 16-step sequencer composing tool with a built in synth that also has the ability to control other soft synths or even hardware via its MIDI out function. The design is circular which allows a different approach to composing and sound design. Inspired by circular step sequencers such as the Buchla Arbitrary Function Generator and Future Retro Revolution. Dedicated to Electronic Music pioneer Allen Strange (1943-2008). Features Sequencer: 16-step sequencer in a circular design with 3 rows: Seminotes, Velocity and Gate. BPM Rate with 5 modes including random. Separate rhythm grid Ad... [more]

 
Product: Enceladus
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Hybrid)
Price: $49.99
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
Enceladus is inspired by one of the many moons orbiting the ringed planet Saturn and brought to light by the Cassini probe mission. It offers from liquid leads, glassy silky pads to up front basses and trance evolving arps, sequences and synths. Features: Two oscillators, each with 32 waveforms. Sync, voice detune, and filter allocation for each oscillator as well as keyboard on-off function. Two Filters, each with 3 filter types (Low pass, High pass and Band pass) with 2x serial filters for richer filter sounds. Separate keyboard tracking and envelope modulation controls are provided. Fi... [more]

 
Product: M42 Nebula
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Hybrid)
Price: $49.95 (Bundle)
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
Combining algorithmic rhythmic elements, giant pad and space sounds which can be manipulated in real time, as well as a unique warp function, the M42 brings the quality of virtual instruments to a new level. The M42 is named after the great nebula located in the constellation of Orion. Features Two synths, each with 4 mode filter, 2 envelope generators, LFO, Pulsar  and a complex modulation matrix.  Synth 1 (DCO) is a virtual analog synth with 5 different waveforms :triangle, saw, square, pulse1, pulse2. It can be independently tuned from synth 2. Synth 2 (SFO) is a sample oscillat... [more]

 
Product: M51galaxy
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Hybrid)
Price: $79.95
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
M51galaxy features custom SynthEdit modules and hybrid synthesis along with rhythmic algorithmic generators, and can be used for anything from ambient-space to high techno-trance. Features: 2 completely independent synths each with: PDO (Phase Distortion Oscillator) with 2*8 waveforms. SUB (VA Oscillator) with 7 waveforms and a 12dB/oct SV Filter. FM capability for metallic sounds. Ensemble, Detune, Mono mode, Portamento, Vibrato. Two 8 Stage Graphic Envelopes (AMP and MOD) with save and load file functions. LFO (BPM synced) with an unique Arpeggiator. Pulsar (BPM synced, creates the algorith... [more]

 
Product: PhadiZ
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Synth (Phase Distortion)
Price: Free
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
PhadiZ is a phase distortion synth (think Casio CZ101) with lots of stereo options including a unique panning/filter swoosh sound for great pads. Features: 2 Oscillators. 6 Envelopes. 2 LFOs. Delay and ring modulator. ... [more]

 
Product: String Synthesizer
Developer: AlgoMusic
Type: Strings / Orchestral
Price: Free
OS&Formats: WindowsVST
String Synthesizer is an emulation of the String Synthesizers of the late 70s made famous by ARP and Solina. The characteristic "ensemble" sound of those machines was not realized by adding expensive oscillators, but by using a (at the time) brand new and relative low cost technology: the BBD chip (Bucket Brigade Device), which was basically an analog delay line. Included are 40 patches by Tim Conrardy, UGO, Matthew DeMeritt and Dr A.... [more]

 
Coming Soon...