FXpansion are mainly known for their excellent BFD drum libraries and player, so this new release is a departure for them. But the DCAM - Discrete Component Analogue Modelling - Synth Squad is the fruit of years of research developing a new form of synthesis. FXpansion claim to have recreated the sound of analogue synths by modelling actual electrical components within your computer.
It's easy to be distracted by a synthesiser's feature set, and Synth Squad's is extensive. The Synth Squad comes as four synths. Amber is a model of a 1970s style 'paraphonic' synth, such as the Roland RS-505. Cypher is an analogue FM synth. Strobe is a modern take on a classic early '80s mono synth, such as the Roland SH101. And, finally, Focus enables you to mix sounds together from all three synths in a single interface. But Synth Squad delivers the genuine sound of analogue synthesis too - with all its warmth intact.
You could use any of these synths in a mix and be convinced that you were listening to the real thing, because each synth, having a powerful and distinct character all of its own, has a certain grit and clarity to its sound that you probably won't find outside your own dusty collection of analogue synths. There's even a knob that gives you mains hum and transistor hiss if you want it. All of this makes for a beguiling combination of retro and modern sounds; the best of analogue synthesis coupled with the best of digital.
This collection will suit anyone who is looking for genuine analogue sounds but doesn't need the sound of any particular classic synth. These synths sound muscular in a mix but not over-hyped; it's almost like they deserve centre stage. At 157GBP though, it's not the cheapest collection on the market, but it's certainly up there with the best.
Written by: Steve Hillier
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