As the first quarter of 2025 begins to draw to a close we’ve already seen plenty of great new hardware and software releases aimed at synth enthusiasts. This trend is set to continue through the rest of the year with releases like these from Iconic Instruments, SRM Sounds, Soundmagic, and Erica Synths all vying for a spot on virtual and real studio shelves. 

Software

Levine’s Machines - Drum Machine
By Iconic Instruments

Link: https://www.iconic.nyc/lm-dm

Price: $79 (Regular Price $99)

Iconic Instruments have revealed that they are collaborating with multi-award-winning British producer/engineer, Steve Levine, for a software series called Levine’s Machines. Levine is known for working with Culture Club, David Grant, The Beach Boys, Ziggy Marley, Gary Moore, and many others across his illustrious career. The first software instrument in this series is the Levine’s Machines - Drum Machine, based on Steve’s original drum machine unit used on all of his most famous recordings. In addition to being a central part of Steve’s career and one of just roughly 500 units, the same model also appeared on many hits from the 1980s. It can be heard on recordings by everyone from Michael Jackson and Prince to Peter Gabriel and Human League.

Levine’s Machines - Drum Machine features more than just the iconic sound of the original hardware, but also offers a full-featured sequencer and a full mixing environment. In addition, contains 20 mix and pattern presets crafted by Steve himself to get users started. The Leveine’s Machines - Drum Machine is available now as a plugin instrument for both Mac and Windows. Visit the official website for more information and the full specifications or watch the video embedded below. 

Valley Forge
By SRM Sounds

Link: https://srmsounds.com/products/valley-forge

Regular price: £107.50 / Sale price: £82.50 (Until 30th April 2025)

SRM Sounds has teamed up with composer Max Richter for the release of “Valley Forge.” If the name sounds familiar it’s because it is named after the spaceship in Douglas Trumbull’s “Silent Runnin” which is apt as this virtual instrument draws inspiration from themes including space, environment, and nature. The heart of this carefully curated assembly of instruments is the expansive sampling session with a 15-piece timpani ensemble. Users can expect several classic acoustic timpani instruments as well as recordings processed via an array of analog electronic devices. It even features Max’s original Minimoog, which has been sampled and included as an essential synth accompaniment. Valley Forge is available as a Kontakt Library and is compatible with the free Kontakt Player or Kontakt v6.8.0 and newer. Visit the official SRM Sounds website for more information as well as recording notes and more.

DynamicX
By Soundmagic

Link: https://neovst.com/product/dynamicx/

Price: $29.00 (Regular Price $99)

Soundmagic has released an innovative dynamic processor called DynamicX that enables users to design their own gain reduction curve. It offers a more straightforward way to control and shape complex or nonlinear dynamics, which sets it apart from traditional compressors and limiters. According to Soundmagic, the design of DynamicX is easy to master even without the help of a manual with straightforward controls. The standard version is offered as a free download from the official website while the DynamicX Surround version can be purchased at a discount for a limited time. 

Hardware

Echolocator
By Erica Synths

Link: https://www.ericasynths.lv/shop/standalone-instruments-1/echolocator/

Price: € 490.00

Erica Synths has unveiled Echolocator, describing it as a hands-on precision tool that lets you take manual and very musical control over small nuances. It features a unique stereo delay with an algorithm that was developed by 112db . com. According to Erica Synths, users can feel their way through live performances and shape the delay response and character on the fly, “like a bat navigating its environment in the dark.” Echoloator features 12 parameters for detailed sound design, a save and recall function for all the parameters, and MIDI control over all parameters. In addition, it features a freeze function, configurable footswitch input, 30 factory presets, 70 user preset slots, and is housed in a sleek aluminum case. For more information, or to pre-order Echolocator, visit the official Erica Synths website.