Now maturing nicely ConcreteFX's Ethereal is taking on a life of it's own. If you didn't read the specifications let's discuss them. The oscillator can be one of 22 well designed waves along with 6 storeable user waves for pad, effects, soundscapes and the one note wonder type of patch that are so much fun to play with. It is also possible to store up to three samples per patch. Fortunately you can use wav files and the ones included in Ethereal.
ConcreteFX have been using multi-form interfaces within the shell of a modest sized master VSTi form. This enables access to the formidable sound engine without making a mess of programming.
One of ConcreteFX's first synths there are familar interface aspects, labeled tabs with specific controls to that tab such as envelopes 11 in all, 8 for the available waveforms and 3 extra for the samples as needed, LFO, modulation matrix, effects, 8 sequences and additive manipulation of sample data. Once again ConcreteFX shows depth of features while maintaining an easy to learn synth engine that yields quick results.
Etherial is best suited for pads, effects and evolving timbres. It is a nifty pad machine and at a bargain price, $40.
The patch library is indicative of the styles of patches you can create with Etherial. One interesting feature is the Evol or evolve area where the original patch sits in the middle of the form with eight different sounds based on the patch. This is a great way to look for new ideas as well as learning the signal flow and engine of Etherial.
Another nice touch are the effects sections where different types of similar effects can be selected. You'll find a number of chorus, modulation and delays, all that can be adjusted in the interface.
Sounds are thin to lush and with the addition of samples they can be just about anything you want. The sophistication of ConcreteFX's work is impressive let alone at a pocketbook friendly price.
If you like pads, need unique sounds or want seemingly endless evolving sounds Ethereal does the job. As the name implies, the sounds have an etherial feel to them so if you want a simple pad synth you may want to go elsewhere....or perhaps not. Ethereal's sound is clear and somewhat digital with a nice amount of warmth thrown together via ample timbral choices such as filters including comb and ring modulation.
Ethereal is a deep synth with a fun interface allowing for exploration. It is hard to imagine anyone not finding use within their music unless they aren't interested in atmospheric sounds and in today's music that is precious few.
Try the demo, it speaks for itself. One of the more mature ConcreteFX synths, one wonders why they aren't spoken of more frequently. Of late that seems to be changing which is good. This is one value packed synth worth your time to try.
