A few months ago ModeAudio released Heatwave, a collection of synthwave presets for Native Instruments Massive.
From the unforgettable Dystopian film soundtracks of the 80s right through to the cutting-edge, analog-obsessed genres of today, this release of 50 ultra-expressive presets sets Massive’s dials, sliders, oscillators and effects to stun with all the beautiful, resonant warmth of these classic synth-heavy influences.
Oscillators are stacked on top of each other and gently detuned for that huge, enveloping sound; filters are pushed to their resonant breaking point, yawning open and closed to breathe dynamic life into each and every preset; every available waveform and effect NI Massive has to offer has been delicately toyed with and coaxed into life thanks to networks of self-modulating LFOs, envelopes and feedback routing – if you ask us, these sounds have their very own sinister intentions!
Heatwave includes a total of 50 presets: 10 bass synth, 10 synth lead, 10 pad, 3 synth arp, 7 melodic synth, 5 atmospheric synth, and 5 sound fx synth presets. The pack also comes with 50 MIDI key-labelled loops that you can use for inspiration or the demo the sounds.
In the demo below I have a quick go with the presets. For a more musical demo, check ModeAudio’s SoundCloud.
So what do I think?
Growing up in the ’80s, I am a bit biased towards the sounds of Heatwave. I just love ’80s synth pop, can’t help it! I think Heatwave captures the vibe of ’80s soundtracks really well. The sounds are bold, reminiscent of vintage analog synths but in a digital NI Massive way.
The patches are well designed. There is a lot of detail in the sounds. With good use of modulation, effects, and playable macro controls, this pack is definitely worth checking out if you are into that ’80s synth sound.
Heatwave is available from ModeAudio for £13 GBP.
