Today, Xils Lab shared a teaser for a new virtual instrument, The Eighty, that promises to capture the iconic Blade Runner sound of the Yamaha CS-80 synthesizer.
In 1982, composer and synthesist Vangelis created what is arguably the quintessential synth soundtrack, prominently featuring the Yamaha CS-80. The Xils Lab teaser video, embedded below, features a modern recreation of Blade Runner’s goosebump-inducing Main Titles:
The Eighty joins several other software takes on the Yamaha CS-80, Arturia CS-80V and Cherry GX-80.
Details on Xils Lab The Eighty are still to be announced.
Today, GForce Software has introduced IconDrum – a new virtual instrument based on the classic LinnDrum drum machine.
There must be something in the water, because Behringer today released their LM Drum, a hardware drum machine that copies the LinnDrum. IconDrum is priced competitively, though, at about 1/10th the price.
What GForce has to say about IconDrum:
“IconDrum pays homage to the legendary Linn drum machine, revising the concept for today’s digital age. The IconDrum provides a bridge connecting the iconic sounds of the early 80s with the creative possibilities offered by modern rhythm creation methods.
Authentic Sound—Immerse yourself in the vibe of old-school drum sounds, recreated and refined for pristine clarity without losing their classic digital warmth. The IconDrum brings you a rich library of 100 authentic sounds, each carrying the soul of the original machine.
Limitless Creativity—Aligned with its innovative feature set, the IconDrum’s sleek and user-friendly interface invites everyone, from beginners to experienced producers, to engage, experiment, and create sounds that are timeless and span a multitude of musical styles.”
Features:
100 “authentic and unique” sounds
Raw sounds, as well as produced kits for immediate pro sound
Over 70 preset kits, including the classic, modern and hybrid variations
Solo, Mute, Delay sends, Reverb send, Pitch, Decay, Pan, HP/LP and Gain per track
3-slot individually selectable FX chain on master
Distortion, Multi-mode Filter, Compressor, EQ, Bitcrusher, Gate and Phaser available for the master.
Over 70 MIDI Files with many classic recreations
Velocity control
Separate outputs
GM Map for your MIDI Controller
Programmable MIDI CC response via MIDI Learn
Fully-scalable UI
Preset Browser
GForce IconDrum is available now with an intro price of £24.99 (normally £49.99).
Steinberg has introduced Iconica Sketch for iPhone, iPad, and any AU-compatible mobile DAW, a new virtual instrument that puts a complete orchestra in your pocket.
What they have to say about it:
“Iconica Sketch brings the power of a full orchestra to your fingertips, offering top-tier audio quality and effortless simplicity.
Whether you’re crafting symphonies, scoring epic trailers, or producing chart-topping pop tracks, Iconica Sketch is designed to inspire and empower you – anywhere, anytime.
Seamlessly integrate Iconica Sketch with your favorite mobile DAW, including Cubasis, Logic Pro for iPad, AUM, GarageBand and many more. Bring your musical ideas to life on the go with Iconica Sketch for iPhone and iPad.”
Here’s a film score example, Nocturne in Still Mist, created by Dom Sigalas using Iconica Sketch and Cubasis 3.7 on an iPad:
Features:
A complete orchestra for iPhone, iPad and every mobile DAW supporting AU
34 instruments, ranging from violins to percussion
140 of the most important short and long articulations (including legatos)
Recorded at the Funkhaus Berlin, in cooperation with Orchestral Tools
Includes free additional Cubasis plug-in version for improved integration and maximum performance
*Note: Iconica Sketch is also available as a Cubasis for Android in-app purchase.
An in-depth overview from Dom Sigalas:
Steinberg Iconica Sketch is available now for $19.99.
