Low-End Monster: A Review of BassTard by HAWK Virtual Synthesizers
Are your speakers ready for a true test? Meet BassTard – a monophonic subtractive synthesizer from HAWK Virtual Synthesizers, created with a single purpose: to generate low-frequency content that cuts through any mix and makes the ground vibrate. This plugin is designed with an emphasis on simplicity, providing you with only the necessary parameters to create the perfect bass sound, without unnecessary complications. Each primary parameter supports the MIDI Learn function for quick and intuitive control.
The Heart of the Bass: Unique Oscillators
At the core of BassTard’s sound engine lies a pair of unique oscillators. They are designed specifically for bass sounds that “shake” the subwoofer and offer a variable waveform from a selection of forms created just for this purpose. Waveform morphing parameters allow for the creation of practically endless combinations, giving each sound an individual character. Each oscillator passes through its own ADSR envelope before entering the filter section.
Shaping the Character: Powerful Filter Section
BassTard is equipped with two filters for deep control over the timbre:
- The first filter is a “Moog”-style low-pass filter, controlled by the Filter Envelope section. It can also be optionally controlled by key velocity and note tracking, adding dynamics to your sound.
- The second filter has variable types and is designed to add overtones and enrich the sound of the main filter. It can also be optionally controlled by note tracking.
More Than Just an Envelope: Versatile Filter Envelope
The Filter Envelope section in BassTard is designed not only for creating extremely fast and clear filtering curves. It can also function as an LFO modulator, allowing you to create deformed, moving bass sounds. Easy setup via the context menu (right-click) makes switching between these modes quick and convenient.
Final Polishing: Built-in Effects
Effects are often an integral part of forming the bass timbre. BassTard integrates key tools directly into the signal chain, simplifying your workflow:
Parametric Equalizer with Spectral Analysis
An easy-to-use parametric equalizer with a built-in spectrum analyzer will help identify unwanted frequencies and further sculpt the perfect bass tone. The idea was to integrate this important tool directly into the plugin, allowing you to quickly find the sound you need and save all settings in one place.
Transient Shaper
The penultimate stage in the signal chain is the transient shaper. It allows you to balance or accentuate the peaks or dips of the overall dynamic range of your sound. Unlike regular envelopes, its parameters control the amplitude of the peak or dip, not the time.
Two-Band Compressor
And finally, for final dynamic control, BassTard has a two-band compressor. It can both smooth out the most aggressive bass lines and reveal roaring harmonics from softer tones. The Dry/Wet parameter allows you to precisely adjust the required amount of compression, perfectly complementing your sound.
Conclusion
BassTard is a focused, powerful, and easy-to-use tool for any producer or musician who needs a solid, deep, and characteristic bass. Thanks to its unique oscillators, flexible filters, a versatile envelope, and integrated effects, you’ll quickly find the perfect bass sound for your tracks. Created to be a key element of your bass production, BassTard allows you to save time and focus on the music.
