FabFilter has released FabFilter Volcano 2, the successor of the Volcano filter effect plug-in. More filters and routings and practically unlimited modulation possibilities make FabFilter Volcano 2 much more powerful. Yet at the same time, the "revolutionary" new 'what-you-use-is-what-you-see' interface makes it also far easier to use.

To start with, Volcano 2 now contains four full-featured filters which can be routed in almost any possible way, including per-channel and mid/side modes. Each filter supports low-pass, high-pass and band-pass responses with 12, 24 and 48 dB/octave slopes and a eleven different high-quality filter characteristics that define the unique sound and overdrive of the filter. All characteristics have been tuned very carefully, using FabFilter's state-of-the-art filter technology. They range from clean with no distortion and smooth with moderate overdrive to raw, self-oscillating and over-the-top. Finally, each filter incorporates a delay line which enables the creation of chorus, flanging and phasing effects.

FabFilter Volcano 2 also introduces new and improved modulation sources. The new XLFOs extend the classic LFO, offering you anything from a simple sine or saw wave to a fully programmable 16-step sequencer. The XLFO features global and per-step glide parameters with adjustable glide curve type, synchronizable frequency, and FabFilter's classic wave form balance feature. The new MIDI modulation sources let you modulate parameters using any form of MIDI data, like modulation wheel, pitch bend, keyboard tracking, velocity and controller data. Finally, the new well-tuned envelope followers and the classic envelope generators can use both regular input and side chain input, opening up a world of new modulation possibilities.

But undoubtedly the best feature of FabFilter Volcano 2 is the highly improved user interface with a 24-slot drag-and-drop modulation matrix that enables you to easily set up modulation connections using the 6 XLFOs, 6 envelope generators, 4 envelope followers and 10 MIDI sources. To make working with this virtually unlimited modulation power easy and understandable, FabFilter introduces the "revolutionary" new 'what-you-use-is-what-you-see' interface concept. The idea is simple yet powerful: Do you want another filter? Just add one. Do you want an envelope follower? Just add one and start modulating things. At all times, the interface only contains the filters, modulation sources and slots that you are actually using. This results in an intuitive user interface that will appeal to experienced producers and novices alike.

Like all FabFilter plug-ins, FabFilter Volcano 2 also offers large, perfectly fine-tuned knobs that offer quick and precise control in both vertical and circular drag modes, interactive MIDI Learn, Smart Parameter Interpolation for smooth parameter transitions, an extensive help file with interactive help hints, sample accurate automation, AltiVec and SSE optimization and much more.

Pricing & Availability

FabFilter Volcano 2 is now available for €119 / $179 / £94. It can be used on Windows and Mac OS X in VST and VST 3, RTAS and Audio Units plug-in formats (both mono and stereo). Bundles with FabFilter Volcano 2 and other FabFilter plug-ins are also available.

Existing FabFilter Volcano users can upgrade to Volcano 2 for €39 / $59 / £29. All other FabFilter customers that own Timeless, Pro-C, Twin, Simplon or One can crossgrade to FabFilter Volcano 2 for €79 / $119 / £59. These upgrade and crossgrade offers last until July 31, 2008.