Alphatron Plugin Description by HG Fortune
Alphatron Pro, developed by virtual instrument enthusiast HG Fortune, was born from the idea of creating a powerful synthesizer specifically designed for generating expressive basslines and memorable sequences. However, Alphatron is not just a typical virtual analog instrument. With the integration of a third “single cycle” digital waveform oscillator, Alphatron offers a significantly broader sound palette.
It is capable of reproducing classic analog timbres reminiscent of legendary synthesizers of the past, such as Moog or Prophet, while also seamlessly blending them with the digital world, creating unique and modern sounds unavailable to traditional VA synthesizers. The third oscillator also serves as a “master” sync for the second oscillator, unlocking new possibilities for sound shaping. Amplitude modulation has a separate adjustable output and uses oscillator 2, modulated by oscillator 1 or 3. Oscillator 1 is a poly-wave oscillator with up to 5 additional waves (Super Saw, Super Pulse, etc.).
Detailed Features and Sound Engine
The Alphatron sound architecture is flexible and powerful, offering a unique blend of VA and digital synthesis:
- VA Oscillator 1: Up to 6 polyphonic waves (Saw, Ramp, Sine, Tri, Pulse).
- VA Oscillator 2: Standard single waves and noise (white, pink), acts as “slave” sync.
- Sample Oscillator 3: Uses typical digital (single cycle) waves, is the “master” sync.
- Amplitude Modulation (AM): Separate output, source – Osc 2, modulated by Osc 1 or 3.
- Filter: 24 dB resonant Low Pass with its own ADSR envelope and the ability to mix 4 modulation sources.
- Envelopes (Filter/VCA): Both envelopes have 3 operating modes (exponential, reverse exponential, linear), optional control of Attack/Decay times by velocity.
- Sound Effects: Include Booster or Exciter, Mystify (three types – Brite, Soft, Dark), BPM-synchronized Delay (with adjustable Offset, Pan), Bass Boost, Pan (for dry signal), small Reverb, Saturator, Main Volume.
Advanced Step Sequencer
One of Alphatron’s key features is its multi-functional 16-step step sequencer with a Shuffle function. It allows you to program notes, velocity values for each step, and mute individual steps.
Key Sequencer Features:
- 8 pattern slots per patch and 4 global pattern slots for quick switching between sounds.
- Copy/paste function for the current pattern into the selected slot, including global slots between patches.
- Two playback modes: normal with adjustable number of steps or Step Variation (uses another 16-step sequencer to vary the number of steps sequentially).
- Loops can be set to repeat up to 4 times.
- The ability to set two alternating semitone offsets, for example, for every 2nd, 3rd, or 4th loop.
- When the Note Seq function is disabled, the sequencer can serve as a step modulator.
- Gate length can be modulated by various sources.
Modulation and Control
Alphatron offers rich modulation capabilities for further dynamic sound shaping:
- 3 independent LFOs.
- 1 Duo LFO with two waves and phase control for the second wave.
- 1 S&H (Sample and Hold) generator.
- 1 Pitch LFO with the option to speed up or slow down the LFO speed.
- 3 Wheels.
- Aftertouch as a selectable modulation source.
- 8 “Lazy” buttons (for randomization or quick changes).
Additionally
- 8 graphic interface (GUI) options.
- 128 ready-made factory presets (patches).
Alphatron is a versatile synthesizer that is perfect for creating modern basslines, dynamic sequences, and unique synthesizer textures thanks to its hybrid sound engine and rich modulation and sequencing capabilities. An ideal choice for musicians and producers looking for unconventional sounds for their tracks.
