Tracktion BioTek 3 is a major update for its flagship multi-synthesis & sample Synthesizer plugin with new features, GUI, and more.
In 2016, Tracktion released the BioTek Synthesizer in collaboration with Wolfram Franke (ex-Waldorf). At the time, it was criticized for having the functionality of a rompler rather than a full-fledged synth. The developer responded by creating a sound designer edition with an open engine.
BioTek 2 followed in 2018 with a major feature boost, including granular synthesis, spinal saw oscillators, new filters, and more. Six years later, Tracktion unveiled BioTek 3, the latest version of its flagship Synthesizer plugin.
Tracktion BioTek 3
According to the developers, BioTek 3 represents a true evolution of its deepest, most creative Synthesizer to date. BioTek 3 remains a powerful flagship multi-timbral Synthesizer that can handle more than 50 layers.
Each layer can host up to four oscillators with multiple synthesis types, including virtual analog synthesis with classic waveforms (sine, square, saw…), 4-operator FM, a unique spinal saw oscillator, samples, granular synthesis, and more.
Then, each layer goes through a dual multimode filter, drive, EQ, and a 4-slot multi-FX processor. On top, you have an arpeggiator per layer. On the modulation side, you get eight advanced multi-wave LFOs, four multi-stage envelopes, randomizers, MPE, aftertouch, velocity, and more on each layer.
It’s a pretty powerful multi-engine that you can do a lot with. According to Tracktion, it was revised and modernized in BioTek 3, making it more responsive and efficient on your CPU. The developers promise over 50 instances without problems.
Filters & Easy Page
Tracktion added newly Transistor Ladder and Sallen-Key filters in BioTek 3. These advanced filters allow you to sculpt your sound with precision, giving you unparalleled control over your audio creations.
The most important thing about this update is the workflow. Firstly, BioTek 3 has a completely newly designed user interface that simply and accelerate your creative process. Besides this, it now comes with a new easy page that gives all essential controls at your fingertips like pitch, filter, or envelope controls.
That’s not all. The new easy page also offers a new dynamic visual XY pad with which you can morph sounds in real-time. An element I quite liked in the first and second version of BioTek.
Further, Tracktion BioTek 3 ships with over 300 new presets from renowned sound designers Miclop, Mode Audio, Databroth, Spektralisk, Hydratek and Alessandro Cardinale.
Other new features are not visible to me at the moment. If something is missing, I will be happy to add it.
First Impression
At first glance, I’m happy that BioTek is being continued as a synthesizer plugin. The plugin now looks much more modern and is easier to use. BioTek 2 was already at a very high level in terms of features, but was more of an underdog among the big flagship synths like UVI Falcon, Omnisphere 2, etc.
I would have to look at the plugin in detail to find out everything. It looks powerful in any case.
Tracktion BioTek 3 is available now for an introductory price of $89 instead of $179 until December 28, 2024. The upgrade price is $49 instead of $99 for a limited time. It runs as a VST3, AU, and AAX plugin on macOS (native Apple Silicon + Intel) and Windows.
More information here: Tracktion
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