DHPlugins Halo 2 is a hybrid synth/sampler/rompler designed primarily for electronic music production, with a focus on bass music genres. Building upon its predecessor, Halo 2 combines meticulously crafted re-sampled audio with synthesis, processing, and effects to create a versatile sound design tool. The plugin features three main sound generators: Sample, Sub, and Synth, which can be layered and manipulated to produce a wide range of sounds from enormous basses to soaring leads and lush pads. Halo 2 boasts over 430 presets and 300 sample banks, providing users with a vast sonic palette to explore. The interface, while retaining the futuristic aesthetic of the original, has been refined for improved user experience. New features include sampler frequency modulation, a split channel arpeggiator, sample unison, precision sample loop editing, and bit-crushing capabilities. Halo 2 also allows users to import their own audio files, expanding its sound design possibilities even further.
Pros:
• Versatile hybrid engine combining samples and synthesis
• Extensive preset library with over 430 presets and 300 sample banks
• Powerful modulation options and effects for deep sound design
• User-friendly interface with visual workflow
• Ability to import custom audio files
• Includes HALO FX plugin for use in DAW plugin chains
Cons:
• Limited control over some synth parameters compared to dedicated synthesizers
• Some users may find the rompler-focused approach restrictive for certain types of sound design
At the heart of Halo 2 are its three sound generators: Sample, Sub, and Synth. The Sample section acts as a rompler with a genre-specific sample set, but also supports user sample import. The Sub generator provides a simple yet effective way to add low-end weight to sounds. The Synth section offers two oscillators with five waveforms each (sine, triangle, sawtooth, square, and noise), allowing for traditional subtractive synthesis.
One of the standout additions to Halo 2 is the new FM mode, available for both the Synth and Sample sections. This feature adds more sonic interest and complexity to the sounds, allowing for subtle modulations or complete audio mangling. The FM capabilities are particularly powerful when combined with the ability to use factory sample banks or even user samples as modulators.
Halo 2 features four multi-mode filters, with three pre-distortion and one post-distortion. The filters now offer six shapes each (low pass, high pass, notch, peak, bandpass, and phase), providing greater flexibility in sound shaping. The integrated tempo-synced LFO for each filter allows for easy creation of rhythmic, filtered sounds.
The plugin’s modulation system is robust, featuring pitch and amplitude envelopes, two tempo-synced editable LFOs, and a step modulator. These modulation sources can be assigned to various parameters throughout the plugin, enabling complex and evolving sounds.
A notable new addition is the 16-step arpeggiator, which can be selectively assigned to each of the sound generators. It offers 47 varied arp presets and includes an intelligent randomizer with a choice of six scale types, adding another layer of creativity to the sound design process.
Halo 2’s effects section is comprehensive, featuring four FX units and four distortion modes (Warm Saturation, Amp Style Drive, Customizable Waveshaper, and Crush). These effects, combined with the EQ section, allow for further sound sculpting and polishing.
The Random Preset Generator is a unique feature that facilitates quick creation of new sounds. With localized random buttons assigned to modulators, waveshaper, sample banks, and arpeggiator, it’s easy to stumble upon unexpected and inspiring sounds.
Lastly, Halo 2 comes with the HALO FX plugin, which allows users to apply the filters, distortions, and effects from Halo 2 directly in their DAW’s plugin chain, extending the utility of the plugin beyond its primary synth/sampler function.
When compared to other popular synths used in bass music production, such as Native Instruments Massive and Xfer Serum, Halo 2 distinguishes itself with its hybrid approach. While Massive and Serum are purely synthesizers with wavetable capabilities, Halo 2 combines synthesis with sampling, offering a different workflow and sound palette. Massive is known for its flexible oscillators and powerful modulation system, which may offer more precise control over certain aspects of sound design. Serum, on the other hand, is celebrated for its crisp, clean sound and extensive wavetable capabilities. Both of these synths might provide more depth in pure synthesis compared to Halo 2.
However, Halo 2’s strength lies in its ability to quickly generate complex, layered sounds by combining samples and synthesis. Its extensive preset library and sample banks give it an edge in terms of immediate usability, especially for producers looking for genre-specific sounds out of the box. In terms of effects and modulation, Halo 2 holds its own against these competitors, offering a comprehensive set of tools for sound manipulation. The inclusion of the HALO FX plugin also adds value, allowing users to apply Halo 2’s processing to other sounds in their productions.
This plugin is best for:
• Electronic music producers, especially those working in bass music genres like drum and bass, dubstep, and future bass
• Sound designers looking for a versatile tool that combines sampling and synthesis
• Producers who value quick results and extensive preset libraries
• Musicians seeking inspiration through randomization and arpeggiator features
• Those who want a synth that can create complex, layered sounds without extensive programming
Halo 2 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, offering a unique blend of sampling and synthesis capabilities. Its strengths lie in its versatility, extensive preset library, and ability to quickly generate complex, genre-appropriate sounds. The new features, such as the FM mode and arpeggiator, add depth to its sound design capabilities, while the refined interface enhances user experience. While it may not offer the same level of granular control as some dedicated synthesizers, its hybrid approach and focus on immediacy make it a powerful tool for electronic music production. The inclusion of user sample import and the HALO FX plugin further extend its utility. Despite some limitations in synth parameter control, Halo 2 proves to be a compelling option for producers seeking a comprehensive sound design tool, particularly those working in bass-heavy electronic genres.