XILS Lab Updates PolyKB To Version 2.0
XILS Lab has updated their vintage polyphonic virtual synthesizer, PolyKB, to mk II status. The PolyKB II emulates the sound and spirit of the RSF PolyKobol Analog synthesizer including one of it’s most notable features, a continuous morphing Oscillator, which can be fully modulated by different sources.
The PolyKB II is a polyphonic subtractive synthesizer based on two waveform morphing, aliasing free oscillators and a self oscillating 4 poles low pass filter. The oscillators take a large part of the sound of this synthesizer while the filter recreating a standard analog chip of the 80’s, allows the PolyKB II to create warm sounds from basses to slowly evolving pads, through aggressive leads and thin crystal keyboards as well as a range of special effects.
While PolyKB II retains the analog characteristics of V1, the folks at XILS Lab have added many features that were not available on the original.
Enhancements:
» Modulation has been enhanced in the three modulation matrices
» All can now have a negative value applied (V1 always being positive), while an additional “Velocity Control Mode” now allows a huge dynamic range
» A number of new modulation sources and targets have been added, including Monophonic LFOs (allowing Mono and Poly LFOs in the same patch)
» The implementation of a unique Time Multiplier system allows all envelope times to be multiplied by x2, x3, or x4 — all with a simple click.
» Two new effects have been added — Phaser, plus a special Dual EQ, with a unique and musical-sounding Contour function.
» The Arpeggiator now includes a Polyphonic mode, as well as Gate and Swing parameters, making it far more versatile.
» The proprietary D-Myx Stereo XY Pad tool now benefits from two dynamic modes, allowing a controlled motion between the points with full visual control.
» The proprietary P-Myx Polyphony-controlled XY Modulation Pad can now send negative modulation amounts, allowing notes to sound different each time they’re played
» An easier-to-operate Polyphonic Sequencer now has a magnification tool and shift step function
» PolyKB II benefits of an ergonomically and cosmetically-revamped GUI, viewable in three sizes (Small, Medium, and Large)
» An improved, intuitive management system based around a powerful dual-hierarchical filtering concept
» 250 new patches – almost all new presets react to Mod Wheel. (New patches will be available right after PolyKB II’s release date.)
XILS Lab’s PolyKB is available now for Mac and PC in the VST, AU and RTAS flavors for $199. All previous owners of PolyKB can upgrade to PolyKB II for free. More information on the XILS Lab PolyKB mkII.
