In a world dominated by ultra-modern virtual instruments, sometimes you want to go back to the origins, to the very “old-school” sound that shaped entire music genres. And that’s where Cynthia comes in – a monophonic VSTi synthesizer from NineCows, created for those who are not afraid to experiment and are looking for something truly unique.
Cynthia differs from its modern counterparts in its philosophy. It’s an instrument that resembles classic analog synthesizers of the past, but with modern conveniences such as preset saving and full MIDI control. It allows you to do “all those crazy things that are impossible to do on a modern synthesizer”, opening up space for creativity and sound experiments.
Sound Sources and Control
The basis of Cynthia’s sound engine is its flexible sound sources and the ability to control them:
Sound Sources
- 3 monophonic oscillators: Each oscillator has control over the waveform and its level. Additional features, such as sync and phase-shift, allow you to create complex and rich timbres.
- Noise generator: Adds an element of randomness to the sound and helps create percussive sounds or textures.
- Two audio inputs: A unique ability to process external sound sources, such as guitar or vocals, using the internal architecture of the synthesizer. This turns Cynthia into a powerful effects processor for any audio signal.
Control Voltage (CV) Sources
- 8-step CV sequencer: Allows you to create sequences of voltage changes that can be routed to various synthesizer parameters to create rhythmic modulations or melodic phrases.
- Attack-Hold-Decay(-Repeat) envelope generator: Creates a classic envelope that controls volume or other parameters. Has adjustable level and bias, as well as the ability to repeat.
Sound Processing and Shaping
Cynthia has an impressive set of tools for shaping and processing sound, allowing you to create truly unique textures:
Effects and Modulators
- Self-oscillating filter: A powerful tool for shaping timbre. Can be used as a resonant filter or even as an additional sinusoidal oscillator thanks to the self-oscillation capability.
- 3 VCAs (Voltage Controlled Amplifiers): Voltage-controlled amplifiers allow you to dynamically change the volume of different parts of the signal under the control of the envelope or external CV sources.
- Ring Modulator: Adds metallic, ringing, or bell-like timbres by multiplying signals.
- Spring Reverb: Imitates a classic spring reverb with the option to choose a short or long spring, adding a vintage atmosphere to the sound.
- Delay: A flexible delay effect with a time of up to 10 seconds, allowing you to create from short echoes to long, ambient tails.
Control and Routing
Cynthia gives full control over every aspect of the sound thanks to its well-thought-out control system:
Controls
- Tuner: Allows you to easily tune oscillators by ear.
- Joystick: Provides an additional dimension for controlling multiple parameters simultaneously, ideal for performance.
- 16×20 routing matrix: The heart of Cynthia’s modular capabilities. Allows you to connect any signal source (oscillators, CV, audio inputs, MIDI pitch/velocity) to any parameter (filter, VCA, effects, etc.). The ability to invert individual connections adds even more flexibility.
- MIDI CC assignment: Any knob on the plugin interface can be assigned to a MIDI controller for convenient control from external equipment or a DAW.
- Adjustable portamento time: Allows smooth transitions between notes.
- Trigger button: For manually triggering the envelope generator.
Outputs
Cynthia offers flexible options for outputting processed sound:
- 2 pairs of stereo outputs: Each pair has additional filters, panning, and volume controls. The options “direct out” and speaker simulation are available, which imitates the sound through small “tin” speakers for checking the mix or creating a specific lo-fi effect.
Overall, Cynthia is not just another virtual synthesizer. It is a powerful and flexible tool for sound experiments that combines the charm of “old-school” analog devices with the capabilities of the modern digital world. It’s perfect for creating fat basslines, piercing leads, experimental textures, and everything in between. If you’re looking for an instrument that will inspire you to go beyond the usual and explore new sonic horizons, Cynthia from NineCows deserves your attention.
