Moog introduces new "virtual studio" synth
Mariana is a duophonic soft-synth with a noise generator and additional sub-oscillator that is opmtimised for bass
Moog has released a new virtual duophonic soft-synth called Mariana, that "breathes new life into electronic sound design techniques for the modern player or producer."
The new synth release is Moog's first since its acquisition by audio equipment company inMusic.
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Optimised for bass, the new virtual studio technology (VST) is a dual-layer synthesiser, which means you can play two completely different sounds at once. Each of these layers have two oscillators with "precise and inventive controls", plus a sub-oscillator to add more weight to its low-end sounds.
There are two resonant Moog filters and a third, sub-oscillator specific, filter for each layer which allow producers to shape their sound, adding warmth or bite. The two layers are both equipped with three LFOs, three envelopes and two random generators.
Mariana's FX section includes chorus, delay, a separate saturation control and a comprehensive compressor for main output and three envelopes: one each for amp, filter and modulation.
The synth is optimised for the quick fine-tuning of stereo content while preserving a powerful mono bass foundation, informed by classic Moog bass instruments like the Minimoog Model D and Minitaur.
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Despite pulling from those classics' lineage, Mariana is soft-synth that is original in its design, rather than an emulation of one of Moog's classics synths.
The design of Mariana's user interface is tailored for quick and efficient workflow, with the option to modulate "nearly ever parameter" of Mariana internally via MIDI, MPE and virtual CV to build "interconnected ecosystem" in your digital audio workstation (DAW) available.
The program can be used on an iPad, as a standalone desktop application or through your favourite DAW with seamless integration.
Buy Mariana here
Tibor Heskett is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow him on Twitter