Aphelion’s Orbit returns with a look at some of Rave Generation’s audio plugins, which recently featured on the blog.
What is it?
Rave Station, along with its product line, is a collection of virtual instruments and effects crafted by the hardcore DJ and producer Re-Style. These products draw significant inspiration from mid-90s workstations, samplers, and effects units. They evoke memories of Casio keyboards such as the Rapman, SK-1, SK-5, and notably, my favorites, the E-mu Planet Phatt and Orbit, particularly excelling in genres like Rave, Techno, mid-90s Hardcore, Eurodance, House, and Old School.
Intro
I was unfamiliar with this line of virtual instruments and their creator. Nonetheless, I am well-acquainted with the genre they target. Having browsed the website and familiarized myself with these products, I have tested them all. Indeed, there are a couple that truly stand out and likely merit greater recognition.
Setup
The installation process is clear and uncomplicated. I would have preferred to select my installation locations, and I found it unusual that the serial numbers were embedded into the applications during installation. This might not be a novel approach, but none of my VSTs install in this manner.
First Impressions
Rave Station is an excellent rompler and sound module-style VST, boasting over 400 high-quality sounds. The sounds were fat, clean and very useful beyond rave and other dance styles.
The VST boasts a straightforward interface that facilitates rapid adjustments to ADSR and compression, while also providing the capability to equalize and apply extra effects such as delay and reverb.
Beyond Rave Station
DJ Re-Style’s effects tools are quite impressive, enhancing the creative potential of Rave Station or any chosen sound source.
I am particularly impressed with:
Sonic Surge: Dynamic Saturation Processor. It delivers harmonics and tone that blend seamlessly into a mix. The inclusion of crossover and smart clip provides valuable additional control. Needs a review of its own.
Sonic Sweep: This console-style mixing and shaping tool features three distinct sections for extensive sweep filtering and crafting unique tones. It’s versatile, not only for kicks and distortion but also for adding character to buses and vocal tracks. Needs a review of its own.
Other Tools:
Rave Distortion: It’s intensely powerful. Caution is advised with the volume level.
Sonic Air: It lives up to its name, adding higher frequencies and spatial dimension.
Sonic Spread: An effective tool for enhancing stereo imaging.
Pros
- Solid presets
- Easy controls
- Low CPU
- Not just for rave and dance music
Cons
- Pricey
- Repetitive UI style
- Need expansions
Final Thoughts
The quintessence of early ’90s rave and dance music is encapsulated here. These high-quality tools enhance your production, transcending the typical dance and rave genres they are marketed towards. For enthusiasts of Rave, this collection is a treasure trove. The spirit of early ’90s rave and dance music is fully realized here.
Each tool boasts an impressive sonic quality. I plan to incorporate them into my R&B, Trap, Hip Hop, Pop, and Alternative tracks. I’m eager to witness the future directions DJ and producer Re-Style will explore.
Thanks, Aphelion’s Orbit! Check out the Rave Generation website for some more details on these plugins.