Sound designer Velislav Velikov takes the newly released Preparation 2 software synthesizer by Physical Audio for a spin. Let’s see what he makes of it.
The term physical modeling means that you can make sounds similar to real instruments in virtual environments, but why is this an interesting thing? Preparation 2 is a string instrument, but not as you know.
This instrument atomizes the string sound and gives you different parts which you can assemble the way you like. Sonic elements’ shapes can be controlled by CC modulators (mod wheel, foot pedal, expression pedal, etc) via the MIDI section in the top right corner.
Preparation 2 allows you to create an original sound with ease. This instrument will add texture to your music.
Think of it as a small recording studio with two mad string players inside, and user control over mic position, tone and playing itself. Suitable for any style where different string sounds are needed like cinematic or ambient tracks. But that’s not all. You may find it very interesting as a percussive instrument as well.
There are two options, think of them as two players – pluck and bow. The sound they generate have different tonal characteristics – the pluck is more percussive, the bow is more string-like. Each player has two strings, which can be mixed and manipulated with different attack and release, allowing you to shape a unique sound.
Overall opinion about Preparation 2: An original string instrument with many modulation options.
Thanks, Velislav! You can download the preset as heard in the demo here.
For more details on the new Preparation 2, head on over to the Physical Audio website. The synth is currently on sale for the intro price of $59 USD, and you can try it yourself with a free demo version.
Velislav Velikov is a passionate song writer / sound designer and creator of real time reshaping technology, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of known sound.
