Unlock the Power of Sound: Arturia Synthx V Review

Revolutionizing Synth Music Production

Arturia continues to build on its legacy of faithfully emulating legendary synthesizers with the release of the Synthx V, a digital recreation of the iconic 1980s Elka Synthex. Known for its distinct analog warmth paired with digital stability, the Synthex was a favorite among artists like Jean-Michel Jarre and Depeche Mode. With Synthx V, Arturia preserves the nostalgic charm of the original while adding modern features that unlock new levels of creativity for today’s producers.

Sound Quality

The Arturia Synthx V stands out with its digitally controlled oscillators (DCOs), which offer remarkable stability while retaining the lush, warm sound of analog synths. The plugin gives access to a powerful sound engine that excels at recreating the iconic rich, full-bodied tones of the original Elka Synthex. Whether you want classic leads or evolving pads, the sound quality remains highly detailed with plenty of sonic depth.

Features

Synthx V not only revives the original sound, but enhances it with modern features. These include:

• A multi-arpeggiator inspired by the Synthex’s original sequencer, expanded with modern rhythm control and gate options.
• Four customizable macro controls, perfect for shaping complex sound design with minimal effort.
• A powerful multi-effects processor that includes reverb, delay, distortion, chorus, and more, fully tweakable and with modulation options for advanced routing.
• MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support, allowing for expressive, multi-dimensional playing, especially suited for users with compatible controllers.

Workflow and Flexibility

Synthx V’s Advanced Panel offers deep modulation capabilities, with flexible routing of LFOs, envelopes, and a function generator. Unlike the fixed setups of older synths, you can map multiple modulators to any parameter using a simple drag-and-drop interface, making sound design incredibly intuitive. With up to 16-voice polyphony and the ability to layer sounds, Synthx V pushes beyond the capabilities of the original Synthex.

Presets

Arturia Synthx V comes loaded with 240 presets, designed by professionals such as Diego Tejeida and Lil Jordy. These presets span a wide variety of genres, from classic synth sounds to more experimental timbres. Even with just 41 of the presets available during the testing phase, the plugin demonstrates its versatility, making it suitable for both retro and contemporary production styles.

Pros

• Faithful recreation of the Elka Synthex’s iconic sound.
• Modern features like MPE support and a multi-arp sequencer.
• Extensive modulation and effects capabilities.
• Intuitive workflow with drag-and-drop routing.
• High-quality presets and sound design flexibility.

Cons

• Price may be steep for casual users.
• The vintage sound might not appeal to every producer’s taste.

Conclusion

The Arturia Synthx V is a powerful, modern homage to a legendary synthesizer. It expertly bridges the gap between vintage analog warmth and modern production needs, making it ideal for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers to the world of sound design. Whether you’re crafting retro-futuristic soundscapes or rich, lush pads, the Synthx V is a must-have addition to any serious producer’s toolkit.