In the world of virtual studios and software instruments, there’s a special niche for emulations of legendary analog synthesizers. These instruments don’t just reproduce the sounds of the past; they carry the spirit of an era that shaped modern music. One such treasure is the Odd-SE plugin from the developer EFM – a faithful emulation of the iconic vintage ARP Odyssey synthesizer.
The ARP Odyssey was one of the most iconic monophonic/duophonic synthesizers of the 70s. Known for its fat, aggressive sound and unique filter character, it became an integral part of the soundtracks of countless hits in genres like funk, rock, electronic music, and even film scores. From Ritchie Blackmore of Deep Purple to Herbie Hancock and George Duke – the Odyssey’s legacy is immense and continues to inspire musicians worldwide.
Odd-SE: A Legend Reborn in VST Format
Odd-SE aims to recreate all the magic and sound palette of the original ARP Odyssey directly in your DAW. It’s not just an imitation; it’s an attempt to bring the unique analog vibe and circuit behavior to the digital world. The plugin conveys the characteristic features of the original, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of classic synthesis without the need to search for and maintain an expensive vintage instrument.
With Odd-SE, you get access to the same sound that shaped entire genres. It’s the perfect tool for creating:
- Deep, resonant basslines capable of cutting through a mix.
- Piercing, “screaming” lead parts that easily become the center of attention.
- Unique effects and atmospheric sounds thanks to flexible modulation options.
- Characteristic funk keyboard and percussive sounds.
Emulation Features and Sound Capabilities
Although the full list of specifications for the original ARP Odyssey and its Odd-SE emulation can be quite detailed, the key elements that make its sound recognizable typically include:
- Two oscillators with different waveforms and the ability to synchronize or cross-modulate (frequency or ring modulation), which is one of the Odyssey’s signature features for creating complex, metallic, or aggressive timbres.
- The legendary filter with resonance, which can self-oscillate, creating unique effects. Different versions of the original Odyssey had different filter implementations, and high-quality emulation strives to reproduce their character. This filter gives the sound a special warmth, “fatness,” or, conversely, piercing quality.
- Two AR (Attack/Release) and ADSR (Attack/Decay/Sustain/Release) envelope generators for controlling the dynamics and timbre of the sound, as well as an LFO (low-frequency oscillator) for adding vibrato, tremolo, or filter modulation.
- A Sample & Hold section that allows you to create random or stepped modulation signals for experimental sounds and effects.
- Duophony capability, allowing you to play two voices simultaneously (as opposed to purely monophonic mode), expanding musical possibilities.
Odd-SE from EFM tries to convey these nuances, allowing you to feel how the different sections of the synthesizer interact, creating that same unique “analog” character. It’s ideal not only for accurately reproducing classic parts but also for experimenting with sound and creating completely new timbres with a vintage flavor.
Who is Odd-SE for?
This plugin will be extremely useful for:
- Musicians and producers working in genres like electronic music (Techno, House, Ambient, Synthwave), funk, Soul, R&B, rock.
- Composers writing music for film or games who need vintage, characteristic synthesizer sounds.
- Sound engineers who want to add unique textures and basslines to their mixes.
- Anyone interested in the history of synthesizers and wants to touch the sound of a legend.
Odd-SE is a great entry point into the world of vintage analog synthesis, especially for Windows (32-bit) users in VST format who are looking for a high-quality and free solution. Its authentic sound and intuitive interface (often replicating the logic of the original) make the music-making process not only productive but also captivating.
Dive into the depths of analog sound of the 70s with Odd-SE and discover the endless possibilities for creativity that this great emulation of the legendary ARP Odyssey offers.
