Regular contributor Aphelion’s Orbit takes a look at Audiomodern’s newly released Soundbox virtual instrument platform.
What is it?
Soundbox is a new MPE sampler from the team at Audiomodern. The virtual instrument can be unlocked by purchasing one of the available instrument packs.
Intro
I’ve experimented with various Audiomodern tools, but they haven’t become a staple in my sound creation process. However, the release of their new, nearly free sampler has caught my attention and piqued my interest.
Setup
The installation process was simple. Install the VST and import the packs. The 3 packs that are currently available for Soundbox are Cosmo, Kromium, and Voxmotive. Installing all three-take up around 10 gigabytes of space. You have the option to install them where you want or move them to a different drive.
First Impressions
Initially skeptical, I didn’t have high expectations when tasked with reviewing this instrument. It seemed like just another mediocre iteration of an already existing, superior product. However, I’m pleased to admit my error.
The sampler is quite impressive for its price and, above all, it’s functional. While the included sound packs didn’t spark much inspiration, the sampler’s robust feature set is excellent for kickstarting ideas or creating sounds.
Where the magic happens
These four sound module sections enable you to add samples. You have complete control over the volume, and can solo, mute, or delete the sections you’re not using. Located just above each module is the effects section. The modulation, vector, and Arp sections are commendable.
I wish the effects section were a bit more comprehensive, yet it remains functional.
More Magic
This sampler excels by offering what we all desire: the capability to drag and drop samples directly from our library.
Securing a full license enables one to transcend the basic player and access extensive editing features, such as adjusting start and end points, reversing, looping, and playing samples across the keyboard, among others.
Recap
This is an easy-to-use inexpensive sampler that gets the job done. The layout and controls make sense and you get a lot of functionality for the cost of a sample pack.
Pros
- Import your own samples!
- Edit capability
- Ease of use
- Randomizer
- MPE compatible
Cons
- For the price there are none.
I would like to see the functionality expanded to add things like half time and maybe some 3rd party VST support, or upgraded effects at a low cost.
Final Thoughts
I found reviewing this product enjoyable. The sampler, almost free, offers significant value. It bears a strong resemblance to Lunacy Audio’s The Cube, yet it’s designed with a straightforward user approach in mind. This sampler allows you to rapidly develop your ideas without overcomplicating the process.
You can download the Soundbox engine for free at the Audiomodern store, where you will also find the first 3 instruments in a evolving collection of expansions for Soundbox.