Acustica Audio has announced the release of Expanse5, a virtual synthesizer that aims to faithfully recreate the sound and experience of the Sequential Prophet-5. This new instrument is part of Acustica's MAREA series.
At the heart of Expanse-5 is Acustica's proprietary MUST (Modular Unified Synthesis Technology) engine. This hybrid technology combines convolution with analog modeling and runs the entire signal path at a high oversample rate. The goal is to deliver a clean sound with smooth modulation and minimal aliasing, preserving the detailed character of the original hardware.
Expanse-5 doesn't just stick to a vintage blueprint; it also introduces some modern enhancements. A "Superstereo" feature widens the stereo image by duplicating and decorrelating the voices. The instrument also includes an "Age" control to introduce the subtle drift and imperfections characteristic of vintage analog gear. The polyphony is scalable, ranging from two to ten voices.
While the core of the synth features dual oscillators with cross-modulation, sync, and PWM, Acustica has added a sub-oscillator for more low-end presence. The instrument also includes a suite of built-in studio-grade effects, including a multi-band saturator, chorus, delay, and reverb.
Features:
- MUST-Powered Engine: A hybrid synthesis core using both convolution and analog-style modeling.
- Full Oversampled Architecture: The entire signal path runs at high internal rates for improved audio fidelity.
- Scalable Polyphony: Adjustable from 2 to 10 voices, with a default of 5.
- Dual Oscillators: Featuring cross-mod, sync, PWM, noise, and fine detune.
- Multimode Filters & VCA: Classic subtractive synthesis controls with envelope, key follow, and velocity.
- Superstereo & Age controls: For adding stereo depth and analog-style imperfections.
- Advanced Modulation: Fast envelopes and audio-rate LFOs.
- Studio-Grade Effects: Includes chorus, delay, reverb, EQ, and a multiband saturator.
- Over 450 Presets: A large library of sounds created by various sound designers and producers.
Pricing and Availability:
Expanse-5 is available now in VST3, AU, and AAX formats for macOS and Windows. It is being offered at an introductory price of €99 until July 14, 2025. The regular price will be €169. A 30-day free trial is also available through Acustica's Aquarius Desktop application.
