Aly James Lab VProm v3.0 is a new version of its drum machine plugin that is based on real-time DAC and EPROM sound processing.
Drum machines with samples have a long history. Before affordable SD cards and internal existed, so-called EPROM chips were used to bring samples into these hardware instruments. The most well-known are the LinnDrum LM-1 and the Oberheim DMX.
Aly James Lab has today released VProm v3.0, a new version of its beloved drum machine plugin that authentically emulates the EPROM and its signal path.
Aly James Lab VProm v3.0
VProm v3.0 is not a free update but is affordable and offers many new features. MacOS users can especially look forward to it—Aly James Lab VProm v3.0 comes with native Apple Silicon macOS (VST3/AU) support, including a Universal 2 plugin that works on both Intel and ARM Macs.
The plugin also comes with a revamped GUI and skins for the LM1, DMX, and LinnDrum with HD graphics, vector knobs, and more.
The new version highlights a built-in WAV resampler and EPROM burner that allows you to create fully compatible .bin EPROM images and convert, preview, and load samples effortlessly. It also comes with a custom EPROM manager that simplifies the organization of the files.
Then, a new real-time µLaw DAC curve response control lets you fine-tune how your samples are decompressed for precise sound shaping. It allows you to subtly match real-world DAC chip variations or push the transfer function further for creative sound design.
Aly James Lab also enhanced the VProm v3.0 plugin with a new mixer that offers greater flexibility, three routing modes (single or multi), and improved equal-power panning.
Unlike the v2, the plugin now has distinct expanded voice card features. For example, the DMX now has controls for the bass, congas, toms, ext1, and ext2 sounds. The latter is new and expands the total drum kit to 14 sounds.
Additionally, the CEM filters now offer full control over envelope response and decay, along with newly introduced VCA settings.
The new VProm v3.0 also ships with new advanced EPROM playback controls, including real-time control over EPROM reading, sample start, length, and loop modes.
A new 48 PPQN internal clock option recreates vintage drum machines’ subtle groove and time feel. According to the developer, this emulation lock triggers events for a vintage-style clock pulse synced to your DAW.
Besides this, it also has a new, modeled natural clock drift known from vintage drum machines that add organic, human-like timing imperfections.
Other New Features & Enhancements
That’s not all you get with the new Aly James Lab VProm v3.0. There are more new features:
- new Master Controls – Master tuning & volume knobs for greater global control.
- alternative, original velocity mode where the trigger number itself controls the volume change
- enhanced oversampling – new “X16 ALL” mode processes all 14 EPROM outputs at 16x oversampling.
- compatibility with VPROM v2.0 presets
- new EPROM kit format – a new away to save and recall full drum kits independently of plugin presets
- additional sound tweaks – fine-tune open hi-hat decay and enable dynamic hi-hat tuning. Dynamic tuning is also available for Toms, Congas, Ext1 & Ext2.
- bug fixes
There is no demo of the new version available yet.
First Impression
At first glance, it is an exciting upgrade for the drum machine. The new features make sense and complement the plugin nicely. The upgrade is also fair-priced for existing users.
Aly James Lab VProm v3.0 is available now for 56€. Existing VProm 2.0 users can upgrade for 20€, and those who purchased 2.0 from Dec 2024 onward get the upgrade for 10€. It runs as a VST3 and AU plugin on macOS (native Apple Silicon + Intel) and Windows.
More information here: Aly James Lab
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