Rob Papen Raw is a powerful virtual synthesizer designed to create distorted and aggressive sounds, particularly suited for electronic dance music genres like dubstep and hardstyle. Developed in collaboration with DJs Promo and Free-K, Raw focuses on delivering gritty, edgy tones with an intuitive interface. The synth features two oscillators with X/Y fields for phase distortion, allowing users to dRaw custom waveforms and create unique wobble effects. Raw incorporates Rob Papen’s renowned filters, along with additional sound-shaping tools like EQ, waveshaper, distortion, and LoFi effects at the voice synthesis level. The plugin also includes a comprehensive effects section, an arpeggiator/sequencer, and a preset bank manager. With its emphasis on distorted sounds and easy-to-use layout, Raw caters to producers seeking to add a Raw, aggressive edge to their music productions.
Pros:
• Powerful distortion and sound-shaping capabilities
• Intuitive X/Y interface for creating unique waveforms and wobble effects
• High-quality presets from renowned DJs and producers
• Versatile effects section including chorus, phaser, flanger, delay, and reverb
• Easy-to-use layout with an “Easy Mode” for simplified operation
Cons:
• Steep learning curve for the Modulation Matrix
• Primarily focused on distorted sounds, which may limit its versatility for some users
Rob Papen Raw boasts an impressive array of features that cater to producers seeking aggressive, distorted sounds. At its core are two oscillators, each equipped with an X/Y field for phase distortion. This unique feature allows users to manipulate waveforms in real-time, creating complex and evolving sounds. The ability to dRaw custom waveforms and use them as LFO shapes opens up a world of possibilities for creating distinctive wobble effects, particularly useful in genres like dubstep and other electronic styles.
The synth’s sound-shaping capabilities extend beyond the oscillators, incorporating Rob Papen’s renowned filters to further sculpt the tone. What sets Raw apart is the inclusion of EQ, waveshaper, distortion, and LoFi effects at the voice synthesis level. This approach allows for intricate sound design directly at the source, resulting in rich, complex timbres.
Raw’s effects section is comprehensive, featuring standard modulation effects like chorus, phaser, and flanger, as well as a stereo delay and a high-quality reverb. These effects can be applied to fine-tune and enhance the already potent sounds generated by the synth engine.
The plugin’s interface is designed with usability in mind, featuring an “Easy Mode” that simplifies the controls for quick tweaking. However, more advanced users can delve into the full parameter set for deeper sound design. The inclusion of an arpeggiator/sequencer adds rhythmic possibilities to the synth, allowing for the creation of complex, evolving patterns.
One of Raw’s standout features is its preset bank, which includes contributions from well-known DJs and producers in the electronic music scene. These presets serve as excellent starting points for users, showcasing the synth’s capabilities and providing inspiration for original sound design.
The Modulation Matrix, while powerful, presents a steeper learning curve. This feature allows for complex routing of modulation sources to various parameters, enabling intricate sound manipulation. However, its complexity may require users to consult the manual for full understanding and utilization.
Raw also includes a unique EQ section, which adds an extra dimension to sound shaping not commonly found in virtual synthesizers. This feature, combined with the various distortion options, allows for precise control over the tonal characteristics of the output.
When compared to similar plugins, Raw stands out for its focus on distorted, aggressive sounds. While many virtual synthesizers aim for versatility across various genres, Raw unapologetically caters to the harder edge of electronic music. Its closest competitors might include Native Instruments’ Massive, known for its wavetable synthesis and modulation capabilities, and Xfer Records’ Serum, which offers advanced wavetable manipulation. However, Raw differentiates itself with its intuitive X/Y interface for waveform distortion and its emphasis on built-in distortion and effects at the voice synthesis level. While Massive and Serum are known for their clean, precise sounds that can be shaped into more aggressive tones, Raw starts from a place of grit and aggression, making it particularly suited for genres that prioritize these qualities. In terms of user interface, Raw strikes a balance between complexity and usability. Its “Easy Mode” makes it more approachable than some of its competitors, while still offering depth for advanced users. This contrasts with synths like Massive, which can be intimidating for beginners due to its complex interface.
This plugin is best for:
• Producers of electronic dance music, particularly genres like dubstep, hardstyle, and industrial
• Sound designers seeking to create aggressive, distorted sounds for music or media projects
• Musicians looking to add gritty, edgy textures to their productions
• Producers who appreciate intuitive interfaces but also desire depth in sound design capabilities
Rob Papen Raw is a specialized virtual synthesizer that excels in creating distorted, aggressive sounds. Its unique features, including the X/Y interface for waveform manipulation and the ability to dRaw custom LFO shapes, set it apart from many other synth plugins. The inclusion of high-quality effects and a comprehensive preset bank from renowned producers adds to its appeal. While Raw may not be the most versatile synth on the market, it excels in its niche, providing powerful tools for creating the gritty, edgy sounds often sought after in modern electronic music. Its balance of intuitive design and deep sound-shaping capabilities makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, though the complexity of some features, like the Modulation Matrix, may require a bit of a learning curve. For producers and sound designers working in genres that demand aggressive, distorted sounds, Raw offers a potent toolset that can significantly enhance their sonic palette.