Rob Papen Blue-III is a powerful and versatile virtual synthesizer that builds upon the legacy of its predecessors. This third iteration of the Blue series continues Rob Papen’s innovative “Cross-fusion synthesis” approach, combining subtractive, FM, and wavetable synthesis with sampling capabilities. Blue-III expands on this concept by introducing Karplus-Strong string modeling, new waveforms, additional filter types, and enhanced sample manipulation options. The plugin boasts a redesigned user interface with scalable sizes and an always-visible XY pad for intuitive sound shaping. At its core, Blue-III is a 16-voice synthesizer that offers an extensive array of sound design possibilities, from classic analog-style tones to complex, evolving textures. With over 5000 presets created by Rob Papen and other industry professionals, Blue-III provides an extensive library of sounds suitable for various musical genres and production needs.
Pros:
• Versatile synthesis engine combining multiple synthesis types
• Redesigned, scalable user interface with improved workflow
• Extensive preset library with over 5000 sounds
• Powerful modulation options and effects
• Ability to load up to 6 user samples per preset
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex feature set
• Some users may find the dark UI color scheme challenging in certain lighting conditions
Blue-III’s synthesis engine is built around six oscillators that can be configured in various ways, including FM synthesis, wave and phase distortion, virtual analog, spectrum waveforms, Karplus-Strong string modeling, and sample playback. This diverse set of sound sources allows for an incredibly wide range of timbres and textures. The oscillator section has been expanded to include new waveforms and the ability to load up to six user samples per preset. This addition greatly enhances the plugin’s sound design capabilities, allowing users to incorporate their own audio material into the synthesis process. The granular synthesis option for select samples further expands the creative possibilities.
Blue-III features two multi-mode filters with various routing options. The filter section includes 6dB, 12dB, and 18dB slopes for high-pass and low-pass filters, as well as bandpass and notch options. Three different filter characters (Type 1, Type 2, and Zero Latency) provide additional tonal shaping possibilities.
The modulation system in Blue-III is extensive, offering multiple envelopes, LFOs, and a modulation matrix for complex sound manipulation. The inclusion of an XY pad on the main interface allows for intuitive real-time control of multiple parameters simultaneously.
Blue-III’s effects section is comprehensive, featuring high-quality processors such as reverb, delay, chorus, flanger, phaser, and distortion. These effects can be routed flexibly within the plugin, allowing for creative signal processing chains.
The arpeggiator and step sequencer provide rhythmic and melodic programming options, enhancing the plugin’s ability to create evolving and dynamic sounds. The sequencer can control various parameters, allowing for complex modulation patterns.
Blue-III’s user interface has been overhauled, now offering multiple size options (100%, 125%, 150%, and 200%) to accommodate different screen resolutions and preferences. The redesigned layout places frequently used controls more prominently, improving workflow efficiency.
The Bank Manager feature allows for easy organization and browsing of presets, with options to search by category, sort by date, and quickly locate specific sounds. This is particularly useful given the large number of included presets.
Blue-III is compatible with both Windows and macOS, supporting various plugin formats including VST, VST3, AU, and AAX. The plugin is also Apple Silicon compatible, ensuring optimal performance on the latest Mac hardware.
Blue-III competes with other high-end, feature-rich synthesizers like Native Instruments’ Massive X, u-he’s Zebra2, and Xfer Records’ Serum. While each of these plugins has its own strengths, Blue-III stands out for its combination of multiple synthesis types and its extensive preset library. Compared to Massive X, Blue-III offers a more traditional FM synthesis approach and includes sampling capabilities, which Massive X lacks. However, Massive X may have an edge in terms of its modular routing system and more modern UI design. Zebra2 is known for its flexibility and excellent sound quality, similar to Blue-III. However, Blue-III’s inclusion of sampling and granular synthesis options gives it additional sound design possibilities that Zebra2 doesn’t offer out of the box. Serum is primarily focused on wavetable synthesis and has a more streamlined interface, which may be easier for beginners to grasp. Blue-III, while potentially more complex, offers a broader range of synthesis types and a larger preset library.
This plugin is best for:
• Experienced sound designers seeking a versatile, all-in-one synthesizer
• Electronic music producers requiring a wide range of electronic and acoustic-inspired sounds
• Film and game composers needing complex, evolving textures and atmospheres
• Musicians looking for an extensive preset library covering multiple genres
Blue-III represents a significant evolution in Rob Papen’s synthesizer lineup, offering a powerful and flexible tool for sound design and music production. Its combination of multiple synthesis types, extensive modulation options, and high-quality effects make it a versatile choice for creating a wide range of sounds, from classic analog-style tones to complex, evolving textures. The redesigned user interface, while potentially overwhelming for beginners, provides quick access to key parameters and improves workflow for experienced users. The inclusion of over 5000 presets ensures that even those who prefer not to dive deep into sound design can find inspiration and usable sounds quickly. While the learning curve may be steep for newcomers to synthesis, the depth and quality of Blue-III’s sound engine make it a worthwhile investment for producers and composers seeking a comprehensive synthesizer plugin. Its ability to handle traditional subtractive and FM synthesis alongside more experimental techniques like granular synthesis and Karplus-Strong modeling positions Blue-III as a formidable all-in-one solution for electronic music production and sound design.