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Synthesizer

SQ80 V

Arturia

Where to get itAvailable from Arturiaarturia.com

SQ80 V is a faithful software recreation of the classic Ensoniq SQ-80 polysynth, available as a VST2, VST3, AU, and AAX plugin. It features a faithfully recreated CEM3379-based 24 dB resonant low-pass filter, dual DCOs with analog character, four 4-stage envelopes (switchable to MSEG or DADSR modes), and a comprehensive effects suite with 15 available effects. The synth captures the sonic warmth and immediacy of the original hardware while adding modern conveniences like MIDI synchronization, modulation mapping, and real-time parameter automation.

Written from the manual and checked against it. How we check

Key Features

01CEM3379-based 24 dB low-pass filter with keyboard tracking
02Four 4-stage envelopes with MSEG and DADSR alternatives
03Dual DCOs with hard sync, amplitude modulation, and independent modulation inputs
0415 effects: Reverb, Delay, Tape Delay, Pitch Shift Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Distortion, Compressor, Multiband Compressor, Multi Filter, Parametric EQ, and additional processors
05Serial or parallel effects routing with wet/dry mixing
06Unison mode with detune and polyphonic voice management

Things to Try

  • 01In the Synthesis Panel, assign Velocity to Cutoff Frequency with positive modulation to brighten the sound as you press keys harder; alternatively use the VEL knob under the resonance knob for the same effect
  • 02Set Feedback to maximum in the Delay effect to create a looper that repeats the signal infinitely, but be aware this can overdrive and distort your audio output
  • 03Use Stage 4 Release Mode to create a reverb-like tail by setting a sharp initial release (fading to just above 0 with short time), then a longer release for an extended fade, creating an elbow-shaped contour
Formats
VSTVST3AUAAX
User Manual↗

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