SanjayC’s $100K Synth Reality Check

SanjayC kicks things off with a crowd-killer: the Korg PS3300, a synthesizer so rare and revered that it’s practically the unicorn of the synth world. Originally birthed in 1977, this legendary beast boasted 144 analog voices and a semi-modular design that made even the likes of Kraftwerk swoon. Fast forward to today, and Korg has magically condensed this mystical creature into a handy plugin using their CMT modeling tech. The new plugin doesn’t just mimic the sound; it crams in MS20 style filters, modulation tools, built-in effects, and full MIDI control. It’s like having a mansion-sized synth shrunk down to your studio apartment, and all for just $99. The virtual collection also expanded to include classics like the Trinity and the SJX2. Talk about boombox-to-Discman level shrinkage.

First up on the freebie train, SanjayC introduces the Slower Fragment plugin from e-Instruments. It’s like sipping a cold brew on a hot day – refreshingly different. This plugin is based on recordings made with four tape machines, each slowed down to give whatever you’re working on a nice, languorous vibe. With six curated presets covering piano, strings, synths, and wind sounds, Slower Fragment is perfect for conjuring up moody atmospheres in your tracks. SanjayC even tosses in a 50% discount code for the full version, which means this ain’t just music to your ears—it’s easy on your wallet too. It’s a slick transition into dreamy soundscapes, brought to life by the three macro knobs that let you twist and bend those presets into something special. And don’t forget, the discount’s only for a limited time. Hustle up!

SanjayC keeps the good vibes rolling with a mention of Antelope Audio’s freebie: the MG4+ EQ plugin. This isn’t your average EQ; it offers a silky sky band feature famous for adding that clean high-end polish to tracks. And yes, it’s totally free until the end of the month. Native Instruments’ Maschine 3.4 update also gets a nod, bringing in some sweet new features like a revamped modulation editor with a pen tool – because who wants to click around like they’re poking at a lukewarm slice of pizza? Plus, the update includes compatibility with new libraries and a performance boost for the Maschine Plus. It’s good to see the Maschine keeping pace with the likes of Akai’s MPC series. Toss in a quirky new MIDI sequencer in the shape of a spinning disc from Playtronica Orbita and you’ve got yourself a slice of music tech heaven served with a twist.

Ever thought about adding some more ‘essing’ to your tracks? Probably not, but that’s exactly what Waves Factory’s new Re-Esser plugin challenges. It splits vocals into sibilant and tonal layers, handing you the reins to fine-tune harsh ‘S’ sounds while leaving the body untouched. It’s described by SanjayC as a full vocal suite masquerading as a utility, packed with goodies like saturation, delay, and reverb. You might come for the de-essing, but you’ll stay for the vocal sculpting extravaganza inside. And with a 30% discount on it, you’re really getting a deal that’s as sweet as a street cart churro.