impOSCar2

USER INTERFACE : Laid out fairly logically, Decent sized controllers, option to show/hide keyboard, value of each parameter displayed in 'selected parameter' window, Looks authentic to original.

SOUND : Probably the best sounding software instrument I've ever heard. Certainly as far as software emulation's of analogue filters go ImpOSCar wins hands down amongst any competition that's around at present. With the extensive sounding sculpting options on offer the ImpOSCar is capable of producing a wide range of sounds and textures. I'm a huge fan of nice warm 80's sounding pads/strings and ImpOSCar dishes these out for breakfast! Want Vangelis style Blade Runner esque sounds? No problem - Check out the 'Blade Dreamer' patch from the preset library and you may think twice about purchasing Arturia's more expensive CS80 emulation. At the other end of the spectrum - Well, to quote Dave Spiers, "It screams like a ba***rd!" :) Best sales pitch I've ever heard and he's not joking either. ImpOSCar is capable of some amazing full on leads and basses that glow with analogue style warmth and character the like of which I have never heard before from a software instrument. Very impressive stuff.

FEATURES : Amazing filter section with wide variety of waveforms, Superb Arppegiator section with extensive control options, Additive user waveforms via wave matrix editor, Built in overdrive, built in chorus and delay FX, Wide range of LFO waveforms and control, Very comprehensive glide controls, Keyboard velocity control options etc...

DOCUMENTATION : Up to GMedia's usual standard - history of the OSCar, Detailed analysis of all controls all in a 'gumph' free 24 page manual. CD also contains 20 min video tutorial which is a great idea.

PRESETS : Plenty of them showing off the ImpOSCar's wide range of sound sculpting abilities. Not arranged in any logical kind of order which is a little disappointing but you could always compile your favourites into your own bank.

CUSTOMER SUPPORT : GMedia are renowned for their after sales support which I used for the M-Tron (Where it was excellent) but not so far with the ImpOSCar.

VALUE FOR MONEY : £100??? Best value commercial software instrument so far. GMedia have got their pricing spot-on and as such I didn't hesitate in rushing out and buying the ImpOSCar. Other software instrument companies should take note. Superb value.

STABILITY : No problems so far.Read Review