Legendary Sound of a Pocket Synthesizer: Stylophone VSTi
Over 40 years ago, the world saw the unique Stylophone pocket synthesizer. Thanks to its unique appearance and distinctive sound, it quickly gained popularity and even featured in iconic tracks such as David Bowie’s “Space Oddity”. Now, this vintage charm is available as a free VST instrument.
Stylophone VSTi is a digital emulation of the same legend. Developer Superwave has made efforts to reproduce the sound of the original as accurately as possible. Instead of modeling, this plugin uses samples recorded directly from the speaker of the original Stylophone synthesizer (not a modern reproduction). Each key was carefully sampled with a loop to recreate its monophonic character and unique sawtooth wave timbre.
Features of Stylophone VSTi
This plugin does not claim to have the multi-functionality of modern synthesizers. It faithfully reproduces the simplicity and limitations of the original, which makes it so special. The main features include:
- One Sample-Oscillator: The heart of the plugin is an oscillator based on 20 multi-samples recorded from the original Stylophone. Each key sample is looped for continuous sound. The wave is classic sawtooth.
- Simple Amplifier: One amplifier with an exponential response curve, imitating the behavior of the original device.
- Fixed Envelope: One envelope with fixed attack, decay, sustain, and release values, corresponding to the original. No complex settings – ease of use.
- LFO for Vibrato: The presence of one low-frequency oscillator (LFO) with a sine wave, which controls only the vibrato effect. This is a key feature that adds a characteristic “wobbly” sound.
- Monophonic Operation: Like the original, the plugin is monophonic, meaning that only one note can sound at a time. This is an important part of its identity.
- On/Off Switch: A simple function that adds authenticity to the interface.
- Ready Presets: Two high-quality presets that allow you to quickly get started.
Technical Details
- Oscillators:
- 1 Sample Oscillator
- 20 Multi-Samples (looped for each key)
- Waveform: Sawtooth
- Amplifiers:
- 1 Amplifier
- Response Curve: Exponential
- Envelopes:
- 1 Envelope
- Fixed Values: Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release
- Low-Frequency Oscillators:
- 1 LFO
- Waveform: Sine
- Control: Vibrato
- Other Features:
- Monophonic operation
- On/Off switch
- 2 high-quality presets
Stylophone VSTi by Superwave is a great way to get access to the unique, nostalgic sound of the classic pocket synthesizer without having to buy the original device. It is perfect for creating lo-fi tracks, experimental music, or simply adding an original timbre to your compositions. Simple, authentic and absolutely free!
