Welcome, fans of unique sound and experimenters in the world of synthesis! Today, we’ll dive into the world of predatory sounds with Raptor — an exciting VST instrument from developer Kriminal. This synthesizer doesn’t just reproduce standard waves; it allows you to build soundscapes based on single-cycle samples, opening the door to endless sound design possibilities. If you’re looking for an instrument that stands out from the crowd and offers a fresh approach to creating timbres, Raptor certainly deserves your attention.
What makes Raptor special?
At the heart of Raptor lies the concept of using samples as an oscillation source. Instead of traditional sawtooth, sine, or square waves, you work with small audio fragments — single-cycle waveforms. This means that the sound character depends entirely on the samples you load. The developer has carefully included a folder with ready-made samples in the kit, allowing you to start experimenting right away. But the real magic begins when you start using your own samples, turning Raptor into a unique instrument with your personal sonic signature.
Architecture and features
Raptor is equipped with two oscillators, each functioning as an independent “waveplayer.” This configuration provides significant flexibility in creating complex timbres.
- Two independent oscillators: Each oscillator can load and play its own single-cycle sample. This allows you to mix different waveforms, creating multi-layered and rich sounds.
- Filters for each oscillator: Each waveplayer has its own filter, allowing you to shape the timbre of the oscillator independently of the other. This opens up additional possibilities for dynamically changing the sound and creating complex modulations.
- Amplitude Envelopes (Amp Envelopes): Each oscillator also has its own amplitude envelope. This allows you to control the dynamics and volume development for each sound source separately, creating interesting rhythmic and textural effects.
- Panorama, volume, and pitch: Standard, but necessary, controls are present for each oscillator, giving you precise control over the positioning of the sound in the stereo space, its overall volume, and the exact pitch. The ability to independently adjust the pitch for each oscillator allows you to create interesting intervals and clusters.
- Modulation capabilities: Raptor isn’t limited to just basic functions. It’s equipped with four LFOs (Low-Frequency Oscillators) — two for each oscillator. LFOs are a powerful tool for adding movement and dynamics to your sound, allowing you to modulate various parameters.
- MOD section: In addition to LFOs, Raptor has a dedicated MOD section, which likely offers additional routing and modulation options for further shaping your unique timbre.
Who is this plugin for?
Raptor is ideal for musicians, producers, and sound designers who want to go beyond standard synthesizer sounds. If you like to experiment, create your own textures, percussive sounds, atmospheric pads, or sharp leads based on unique samples, Raptor will be a valuable addition to your plugin collection. It is especially attractive to those interested in sample-oriented synthesis and who want to delve deep into the process of creating sounds from scratch. The ability to load your own single-cycle waveforms makes it an extremely flexible tool for realizing the boldest sound ideas.
The plugin is available in VST format and is designed for users of the Windows operating system (Win32). This makes it accessible to a wide range of PC users working with compatible Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Despite the fact that Raptor doesn’t have a modern photorealistic interface, its strength lies in its functionality and unique approach to synthesis. It offers enough depth for serious sound design while remaining intuitive to use after familiarizing yourself with its concept.
Conclusion
Raptor from Kriminal is more than just a synthesizer. It’s a tool for creativity, inviting you to explore the boundless world of sounds built on single-cycle samples. Its two-oscillator architecture with independent filters and envelopes, extensive modulation capabilities thanks to four LFOs and the MOD section, and the ability to use your own samples make it a powerful tool for creating original and expressive timbres. If you’re ready to experiment and are looking for a fresh perspective on synthesis, Raptor will become your faithful companion in the studio. Download it today and start creating sounds that reflect your unique creative vision.
