There have been plenty of new releases by some big names in the synthesizer industry, but smaller companies and individuals have also been very busy. Here’s a quick rundown of some new hardware and software releases by the likes of Eternal Engine, Grayscale, UnplugRed, and more. 

Hardware

Mars

By Eternal Engine

Website: https://apparatus.su/mars.html

Price: $2199 (Excluding shipping cost and local taxes)

Eternal Engine has released Mars, which has got to be one of the most interesting and unique synthesizers in recent years. According to the company, Mars is the first polyphonic synthesizer based on vacuum tubes. The oscillators are based on the famous R-2R DAC TDA 1387 while the original fully tube audio path is based on the APPARATUS synthesizer circuit. Mars also supports full software control and can be integrated into any DAW using the original plugin. The synth is available in a five-unit high compact Rack format and assembled by hand so quantities are very limited. Eternal Engine has stated that the tubes are removed during transport and that a set of spare tubes is included. Mars owners can also order additional new tubes if required. For more information, including the full specifications, visit the official website. The sounds of Mars can be heard in the video below.

Helix

By Grayscale

Website: https://grayscale.info/index.php/?s=helix

Price: $399

Grayscale has released what they call an “evolution of Mutable’s Plaits macro oscillator.” It’s called Helix and it also offers new features such as pitch quantization, parameter randomization, and an internal modulation bus. Everything is housed in an efficient 18hp package to provide a self-contained synth voice for Eurorack modular systems. Helix includes all 24 algorithms from the final Plaits v1.2 firmware along with a new algorithm, the Lo-Fi Oscillator. In addition, all 25 algorithms are simultaneously displayed on the LED matrix, so there’s no need to switch banks. Other features include a pitch quantizer with 35 scales, parameter randomization, and dedicated knobs for the LPG/VCA levels and envelope decay time. Helix is available now with either a black (PCB) or gray (aluminum) front panel. For more information, or to place an order, visit the official grayscale website. 

Time

By Larix-Electro

Website: https://www.larix-elektro.com/PRODUCT_RITOURNELLE_TIME.html

Price: 

The latest release by Larix-Elektro is a new trig-to-gate converter module for Eurorack systems, simply called Time. According to Larix-Elektro, the module functions as a Swiss Army Knife of time management for Gate signals. Thanks to its many inputs and outputs, it is also a great companion to your favorite ADSR envelope. For the full rundown of what Time has to offer, check out the video below or visit the official Larix Elektro website. 

Software

Magic Carpet

By UnplugRed

Website: https://vst.unplug.red/magiccarpet

Price: Free (Paid Version Available via $5 Patreon Membership)

UnplugRed has released a new delay plugin called Magic Carpet, which is available in free and paid versions for macOS, Linux, and Windows. It features three delay lines with a shared feedback path, which creates a delay that starts sparse, but then gets denser with each feedback. This results in a very full-sounding delay instead of something with a lot of gaps. In addition, Magic Carpet is capable of creating noise with a special mode that raises the feedback to unstable levels.

Magic Carpet is available in a free and paid version. Both have the same features, but the free version comes with a non-intrusive banner.

NoiseSpace

By Igor Vasiliev

Website:

Price: $15.99

Igor Vasiliev has released a new experimental sound generator called NoiseSpace for iOS and macOS. It is based on simplex noise, used in a granular synthesis algorithm to create a vast array of diverse waveforms. These are all rich in harmonics with a rich low-frequency spectrum and everything is controllable with just a few simple parameters. According to Igor, NoiseSpace is great for creating rich noise, gritty textures, complex patterns, and deep, dark, mesmerizing backgrounds. Musicians who love creating ambient compositions or working in sci-fi, industrial, post-apocalyptic, and horror atmospheres will find a lot to like about NoiseSpace. It features five sound generators, low-frequency modulators, a dual output system, and more. Visit the App Store for more information or to purchase a copy of NoiseSpace.