Korg Modwave Native is a powerful wavetable synthesizer plugin that brings the capabilities of the hardware Modwave synthesizer to your digital audio workstation. This software instrument faithfully recreates the deep sound engine of its hardware counterpart, offering incredibly flexible wavetable oscillators, rich filters, extensive modulation options, and sophisticated pattern sequencing. The plugin features dual layers, each with its own complete synth engine, allowing for complex sound design and layering. At its core are the wavetable oscillators, which can morph between waveforms and be manipulated in various ways. The Modwave Native also includes the unique Kaoss Physics engine for creating evolving, organic modulations, and the Motion Sequencing 2.0 system for intricate, rhythmic parameter changes. With its vast library of wavetables, samples, and presets, along with the ability to import custom wavetables and samples, the Modwave Native offers an expansive palette of sonic possibilities for electronic music producers, sound designers, and composers.
Pros:
• Incredibly deep and flexible wavetable synthesis engine
• Powerful modulation capabilities with Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0
• Seamless patch exchange with the hardware Modwave synthesizer
• Vast library of wavetables, samples, and presets
• Ability to import custom wavetables and samples
Cons:
• Steep learning curve due to complex interface and numerous features
• Higher CPU usage compared to some competing wavetable synths
The Modwave Native’s feature set is extensive and sophisticated. The dual-layer architecture allows for complex sound design, with each layer containing a complete synth engine including oscillators, filters, envelopes, LFOs, and effects. The wavetable oscillators are the heart of the instrument, offering a vast array of waveforms that can be morphed and manipulated. Users can navigate through wavetables using various methods, including linear scanning, FM-style ratios, and audio-rate modulation.
The filter section provides multiple filter types, including emulations of classic Korg filters like the MS-20 and Polysix. These can be arranged in series or parallel configurations, offering diverse sound-shaping options. The modulation system is particularly noteworthy, with a matrix that allows for complex routings between numerous sources and destinations. This is further enhanced by the Kaoss Physics engine, which generates organic, evolving modulations based on simulated physical interactions.
Motion Sequencing 2.0 allowing for intricate, rhythmic parameter changes. This system can create evolving patterns that add movement and interest to sounds, from subtle variations to dramatic transformations. The arpeggiator adds another layer of rhythmic possibilities, with various modes and pattern options. Effects are well-represented in the Modwave Native, with a range of high-quality processors including reverbs, delays, modulation effects, and more. These can be applied per layer or to the overall output, allowing for detailed sound sculpting and polishing.
The Modwave Native also shines in its preset management and sound library. It comes with a vast collection of factory presets that showcase the synth’s capabilities across various musical genres. The ability to import custom wavetables and samples further expands the sonic palette, allowing users to create truly unique sounds.
Integration with the hardware Modwave is seamless, with the ability to exchange patches between the plugin and the physical instrument. This feature is particularly valuable for users who own both versions, as it allows for a fluid workflow between studio production and live performance.
When compared to similar plugins, the Modwave Native stands out for its unique combination of features. While other wavetable synths like Xfer Serum or Native Instruments Massive X offer powerful wavetable manipulation and extensive modulation options, the Modwave Native’s Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0 provide a distinctive approach to creating evolving, organic sounds. The seamless integration with hardware is also a unique selling point, not commonly found in competing software synths. In terms of sound quality and flexibility, the Modwave Native is on par with top-tier wavetable synths. However, its interface and workflow may be more complex than some competitors, which could be seen as either a pro or con depending on the user’s preferences and experience level. The CPU usage is reportedly higher than some similar plugins, which may be a consideration for users with less powerful systems.
This plugin is best for:
• Electronic music producers seeking complex, evolving sounds
• Sound designers requiring deep synthesis capabilities
• Composers looking for unique, cinematic textures
• Owners of the hardware Modwave synth wanting software integration
• Musicians interested in exploring advanced wavetable synthesis
Korg Modwave Native is a formidable wavetable synthesizer that brings the power and flexibility of its hardware counterpart to the digital realm. It offers an incredibly deep synthesis engine that goes beyond traditional wavetable manipulation, incorporating unique features like Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0. These tools, combined with the extensive modulation options and high-quality effects, allow for the creation of complex, evolving sounds that can range from subtle, organic textures to aggressive, dynamic leads and basses. The plugin’s vast library of wavetables, samples, and presets provides an excellent starting point for sound design, while the ability to import custom content ensures virtually limitless sonic possibilities. While the learning curve may be steep due to its complexity, dedicated users will find the Modwave Native to be a highly rewarding instrument capable of producing distinctive and inspiring sounds. Its seamless integration with the hardware Modwave is a significant advantage for those using both studio and live setups. Despite higher CPU usage compared to some competitors, the Modwave Native’s unique feature set and sound quality make it a strong contender in the crowded field of software synthesizers, particularly for those seeking to push the boundaries of wavetable synthesis.