Synapse Obsession — Free Download

Classic Synth Architecture

Obsession emulates a vintage analog keyboard with meticulously modeled circuitry. The core voice starts with two oscillators, a low-pass filter that switches between two and four poles, and a pair of ADSR envelopes. Two LFOs provide additional modulation depth. The instrument captures the essence of classic synth voice design.

The filter and envelopes shape the raw oscillator output, producing everything from warm bass to sharp leads. The two LFOs can modulate pitch, filter cutoff, and amplitude, creating evolving textures or rhythmic effects. This foundational architecture delivers the characteristic character of an analog polysynth.

Per-Voice Control

The defining feature of Obsession is its individual voice control. Each of the eight (or sixteen in the full version) voice boards can vary subtly from the others. Trim pots for cutoff frequency and amp release allow each voice to be tuned slightly higher or lower, mimicking the natural inconsistencies of analog hardware.

These variations create an organic, lively sound that is highly expressive. Additional parameters like oscillator and filter scaling appear on the voice boards, enabling fine-grained per-voice differences. This results in a rich, evolving character that feels alive and unpredictable, just like a vintage synthesizer.

Two-Part Engine and Effects

Obsession features a two-part engine with Single, Dual, and Split modes, allowing for layered or split keyboard play. The back panel provides access to a high-quality effects section, including a reverb by Mirko Ruta with a shimmer effect, a stereo delay, and a chorus/ensemble effect. These processors enhance the output with space, movement, and depth.

The effects are integrated into the instrument, simplifying setup for performance or production. The reverb adds atmospheric decay to pads and leads, while the delay and chorus thicken and animate the sound. The effects section is crucial for transforming basic patches into epic, cinematic textures.

Modulation and Interface

Obsession’s modulation capabilities are expanded with a comprehensive matrix and a step-based LFO control. The LFO Steps allow for rhythmic, tempo-synced modulation of nearly any parameter, and freehand drawing enables arbitrary LFO shapes. This makes it easy to create evolving sequences and complex movement.

An ‘Organic’ knob simulates temperature-dependent fluctuations, further enhancing expressiveness. The interface is easy to use and scalable, with direct access to all essential parameters. MPE and NKS support are included for modern workflows, bridging vintage character with contemporary control.

Key features

• Meticulous analog polyphonic synth emulation
• Two-part engine with Single, Dual, and Split modes
• Individual voice control with trim pots for organic stability
• Stepped LFO modes with freehand drawing
• High-quality effects: reverb, shimmer, delay, and chorus
• Comprehensive modulation matrix
• Scalable, Retina-ready user interface

Best for

Best for sound designers and musicians seeking authentic vintage analog tones with organic variation, particularly for lush pads, evolving leads, and atmospheric textures. The per-voice control and step modulation make it ideal for cinematic scoring and expressive electronic music production.