Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0 review: new update brings a redesign of its intuitive and fun morphable free Synthesizer plugin (macOS, Windows, iOS).
I wrote a review of the Klevgrand SyndtSphere over seven years ago. It is a unique free Synthesizer for macOS and Windows. There is also an iOS AUv3 version, which is not free. It’s crazy how fast time has passed. A lot has happened in the seven years.
The fun sound-surfing synth is still available for free download. Now, it’s in a new version. Klevgrand has just released SyndtSphere 2.0, a new version of its free plugin.
Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0
SyndtSphere 2.0 remains technically the same Synthesizer plugin in the new version. Klevgrand, however, completely overhauled the interface, making it more modern and sleek. Yep, it’s day and night and looks much nicer. Plus, it is now fully resizable.
It also has a new volume slider. Everything I wrote in 2017 applies to the rest. Nothing has changed in terms of sound. Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0 remains a free synth with a distinct virtual analog sound. I’m glad Klevrand has given the synth a modern life. I hope for another seven years.
Review From November 28, 2017
In 2017, music apps (iOS) are no longer indispensable to the music production world. There are hundreds, including Synthesizers, drum machines, effects, MIDI apps (sequencers, controllers, etc.), complete DAWs, and more.
With the release of so many music apps in the past, it will become increasingly difficult for developers to create new concepts, as there is already a lot on the app landscape. Johan from the Swedish company Klevgrand has released SyndtSphere, a new Synthesizer plugin/app that offers a unique take on sound generation.
Klevgrand SyndtSphere
In Klevgrand SyndthSphere, the complete synth engine is hidden inside a touchable sphere. By touching the sphere in the middle, musicians can morph/surf through 70+ pre-designed presets/states and easily create new sounds.
It features a super straightforward interface that everyone understands in seconds. It’s perfect for any music or synthesis knowledge level. Whatever child, experienced musician, or grandfather /grandmother, the interface is implemented so intuitively that everyone understands it.
This allows people to design new sounds without going into depth. Additionally, you can route a ping-pong delay with various controls (time, feedback, mix) to your sounds. You can also work with Legato and Glide. Every created sound, aka coordinate, can be saved in a preset browser.
Connectivity
Klevgrand SyndtSphere is available as a free PC/Mac plugin and a paid iOS application. The plugin version comes with VST/AU support, making integrating with DAWs like Ableton Live, Studio One, and Cubase easy.
Unfortunately, the iOS version doesn’t support the AudioBus or Inter-App-Audio SDK. Nonetheless, the app comes with an AUv3 version that allows you to use it also in all iOS DAWs in multiple instances.
Sound Quality
In a Synthesizer review, it’s essential to report the sound even if no classic synth parameters are exposed, only a playable sphere. As a reminder, Klevgrand SyndtSphere is based on Syndth, a Synthesizer plugin that features all the parameters hidden in this free plugin/app.
The sound quality is at the same level as its big brother Syndt. SyndtSphere’s sound character is unique and doesn’t sound like another modeled vintage analog Synthesizer. It has its own original character.
Sound-wise, whether you like Klevgrand SyndtSphere depends on whether you like Syndt. I enjoy the sonic palette of both synths, but I also know some users who don’t love them. To get a better sound impression, check out my sound demo of the Syndt Synthesizer below.
Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0 Review
In summary, Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0 is a music app /plugin that is not just for synth heads but for everyone. The concept is fresh and fun. If you are an experienced musician or sound designer, the app feature and sound set might be limited because you are limited to the 70 pre-designed states/presets.
Yes, the sound is quite special, so it will not make everyone happy. An additional export feature (pro version) from Syndt to SyndtSphere would be great. That would certainly make the whole app more enjoyable for experienced musicians.
In summary, SyndtSphere 2.0 is a lovely but different Synthesizer app /plugin that appeals to every user, not just musicians.
Klevgrand SyndtSphere 2.0 is a free download and runs as a VST and AU plugin for macOS and Windows. The iOS version with AUv3 support is available on the AppStore for $1.99.
More information here: SynthSphere PC/Mac / AppStore
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