Tracktion Retromod LoFreq Wired is a virtual instrument that faithfully samples eleven contemporary analog mono synths, adding dual oscillators, a multimode filter, an XY pad, unison, and an arpeggiator for modern sound design.
Purpose
Retromod LoFreq Wired is part of the LoFreq series, which captures the character of analog mono synths through meticulous multi-sampling. This edition focuses on modern semi-modular instruments produced between 2009 and 2018, offering a palette of contemporary analog textures without needing the original hardware.
The sampled synths range from the MFB Kraftzwerg to the Pittsburgh Modular SV-1 and Dreadbox Erebus V3, representing a broad spectrum of modern semi-modular machines. Designed for producers seeking authentic analog tones, it brings the sonic essence of these instruments into a software instrument that integrates seamlessly into a DAW-based workflow.
Key Capabilities
Each sample is enhanced by a secondary multimode resonant filter, adding a contemporary tonal twist to the original sound. A second oscillator can be layered to add thickness and weight, making basses and leads more powerful. The XY pad provides real-time control over timbre, ranging from subtle to aggressive coloration.
With up to 16 voices of unison, you can create dense, wide sounds that fill a mix. The integrated arpeggiator allows for rapid generation of rhythmic patterns, turning simple chord holds into pulsing sequences. These features work together to give you expressive control over the instrument’s character.
Workflow
In a typical session, you load LoFreq Wired, select one of the sampled synths, and use the second oscillator to thicken the tone if needed. The filter can be modulated via the XY pad, allowing you to sweep from subtle to aggressive textures in real time, adding movement to your performance.
For pattern-based writing, engage the arpeggiator to transform held notes into evolving sequences. The unison feature is ideal for creating wide, cinematic pads or fat, piercing leads. The instrument is designed for immediate playability, making it suitable for both studio production and live performance once you set up your preferred parameters.
Practical Applications
LoFreq Wired excels at producing pulsing basslines, searing leads, and thick pads. The sampled synths cover a broad sonic range, from the aggressive character of the Dominion 1 to the quirky textures of the Make Noise 0-Coast, offering diverse timbres for various musical contexts.
Use it for electronic genres like techno, house, and synthwave, where authentic analog tones are essential. The XY pad and arpeggiator make it easy to craft evolving sequences for intros or breakdowns. It also serves as a powerful sound design tool, providing a palette of modern mono synth colors that can be shaped intuitively.
Key features
- Samples from 11 modern analog mono synths manufactured between 2009 and 2018
- Secondary multimode resonant filter for contemporary tonal shaping
- Second oscillator to thicken and enhance the original sound
- XY pad for adding subtle to aggressive character in real time
- Up to 16-voice unison for dense, wide patches
- Integrated arpeggiator for quick pattern generation
Best for
Producers and sound designers who want the authentic sound of contemporary analog mono synths in a software instrument, especially for electronic genres that rely on punchy basses, expressive leads, and evolving pads.