Mariana is a dual-layer software bass synthesizer from Moog, designed for deep, professional low-end tones with flexible modulation, built-in effects, and an intuitive interface for modern music production.
Core Design and Purpose
Mariana is a software bass synthesizer that focuses on generating deep, powerful low-end sounds. It uses two independent synthesizer layers, each with two oscillators and a sub-oscillator, allowing you to blend two distinct tones or play them duophonically. This structure supports both complementary sound stacking and independent melodic lines within a bass-centric instrument.
All layers route through twin resonant Moog filters, with a separate filter for the sub-oscillator, enabling precise tonal shaping. The oscillators are stereo, and the filters include crossover functionality, letting you manage stereo width while preserving a solid mono bass core. This design is aimed at producers needing both sonic flexibility and low-end stability.
Modulation and Sound Design
Mariana offers deep modulation capabilities. Each layer includes three LFOs, three envelopes, and two random generators, all of which can be routed through a comprehensive modulation matrix. This allows you to modulate nearly any parameter, creating dynamic and evolving timbres over time.
The instrument supports internal modulation via MIDI, MPE, and virtual CV, enabling interconnection with other software instruments. This feature is particularly useful for building complex, responsive setups within a DAW, making Mariana suitable for both intricate sound design and performance-oriented patches.
Built-in Processing and Effects
Mariana includes a suite of integrated effects and processing tools. It features warm tube, tape, and overdrive saturation, plus a compressor to add presence and cohesion to bass lines. Real-time metering helps you monitor and adjust levels to a professional standard.
A flexible delay and chorus effect operate on each layer independently, with high-pass filters to maintain a solid mono signal while expanding the stereo image. This built-in chain allows you to produce mix-ready sounds directly from the instrument, without needing additional processors or effects plugins.
Workflow and Applications
Mariana is designed to work both as a plugin within a DAW and as a standalone app, which can be controlled via MIDI. An iPad version is also available, featuring an expressive on-screen keyboard. This versatility supports different production workflows, from desktop-based sessions to portable or performance-oriented use.
Although optimized for bass, Mariana can also produce leads, percussion sounds, and effects, making it possible to create a full track with a single instrument. With 200 included presets spanning various genres, it offers a quick starting point for sound creation and is suitable for producers looking to incorporate classic Moog-style bass into their music.
Key features
- Dual-layer synthesizer with two oscillators and sub-oscillator per layer
- Two resonant Moog filters plus a dedicated sub-oscillator filter
- Stereo oscillators with crossover filter functionality
- Deep modulation matrix with three LFOs, three envelopes, and two random generators per layer
- Built-in saturation, compressor, delay, and chorus effects with metering
- Compatible with MIDI, MPE, and virtual CV for external interconnectivity
- 200 presets covering a variety of musical genres and styles
Best for
Mariana is best for electronic music producers and sound designers who need a versatile, deep-sounding bass synthesizer for genres like techno, hip-hop, and ambient. It is also suitable for creating leads and percussion, and for those who want a cohesive tool for both studio and portable music-making.