In the evolving landscape of music production, sound design has continually pushed boundaries, leading producers to explore new avenues for sonic creation. Among these explorations is the supersaw sound—a staple in genres such as EDM and hyperpop. While most synthesizers can generate this sound through stacked sawtooth oscillators, Native Instruments has introduced SuperStarSaw, a dedicated plugin crafted specifically for the art of creating and perfecting supersaws. But does it stand out, or is it just another addition to an already saturated market? Let’s dive into the intricacies of this innovative software.
Key Features
- Two sawtooth synthesis engines with sixteen oscillators each.
- Deep controls for voice stacking, detuning, glide, panning, and more.
- XY-Pad style Morpher, LFO, and envelopes for modulation and performance.
- Built-in chorus, delay, and reverb effects.
- Preset library with a diverse range of different sounds and effects.
- Randomization options for unpredictable creative results.
Main Synthesis Engine and Morpher
SuperStarSaw distinguishes itself with an unconventional approach. Unlike many standard synthesizers that begin sound design from the ground up, this plugin starts with thickly layered sawtooth waves, instantly providing a wide and powerful auditory experience. The initial patches are reminiscent of iconic supersaw sounds found in festival hits and underground raves, making it tempting to rely solely on these presets. However, the true magic lies in the ability to refine and sculpt those sounds further.
Central to SuperStarSaw’s design is its impressive array of controls for each synthesis engine. By utilizing a choice of 16 oscillators, users can manipulate the audio across the stereo field and sculpt the sound to mix clarity with density. The interface provides a simple width slider to adjust the stereo image while a spread slider introduces depth through detuning. Panning controls help position sounds in the stereo spectrum, while additional modulation controls breathe life into static tones. By stacking voices strategically, producers can create a rich sound palette that balances between sheer power and sonic finesse.
A particularly engaging feature is the ‘To Chord’ functionality, which enables users to snap detuned voices to specific notes within a selected chord. This dynamically changes the harmony with motion modulation, enhancing the expressive qualities of leads and pads alike. The interface, adorned with intuitive visual feedback, makes tweaking parameters highly responsive, showcasing how each adjustment affects the overall sound.
One particularly enjoyable aspect of working with SuperStarSaw is the randomization feature integrated into most settings. This allows musicians to embrace happy accidents, producing unforeseen sonic results that may ignite inspiration. The degree of randomness can vary dramatically—from subtle tweaks that preserve the original essence to extreme alterations that yield entirely new sounds.
The intuitive layout also enables seamless workflow, featuring a mix slider to balance the two engines and an XY morphing pad for transitioning between distinct settings. This morphing capability can be applied to create lush, gradual changes for ambient segments or brisk shifts designed to announce drops in an energetic track.
Effects and Modulation
While the built-in effects in SuperStarSaw—namely chorus, delay, and reverb—are functional, they don’t add substantial depth to the plugin. Their minimalist nature, possessing only basic controls, serves as an adequate accompaniment to the powerful synthesis capabilities already present. Most producers will likely prefer using dedicated plugins for advanced effects, making these built-ins a convenient but secondary feature.
On the modulation front, SuperStarSaw offers significant depth. The motion panel supports standard LFO controls, with rate and phase settings for dynamic automation. Conversely, the main modulation capabilities are managed by one LFO and two envelope modulators that allow extensive assignments to almost any parameter. The interface presents these features with clarity, so producers can efficiently engage their creative ideas without losing track amid complex settings.
Presets
A standout feature of SuperStarSaw is its expansive preset library, categorized into eight distinct genres: artist, bass, lead, pad, pluck, sound effects, soundscapes, and stabs & chords. Each category boasts a rich assortment of sounds that reflect various musical styles, effectively showcasing the plugin’s versatility. However, users may wish for a preset browser akin to **Absynth 6**—complete with character tags—to simplify browsing through names that can sometimes feel arbitrary.
The presets themselves are crafted with care, presenting a wide variety of modulation techniques and vocal shaping that inspire exploration. From classic Reece bass tones to ethereal pads, each preset reveals the sonic capabilities of SuperStarSaw. Notably, sounds like “Phosphorescent” and “Hornet” provide tantalizing leads, while ambient tones transport listeners into unique soundscapes. Overall, the preset library is one of the most robust available, a must-experience for users considering this plugin.
The Verdict
SuperStarSaw successfully carves out its niche in the world of synthesizers, targeting producers keen on harnessing the full potential of the supersaw sound. With an impressive preset library, robust modulation options, and an intuitive user interface, it stands apart from the plethora of generic software synths. The incorporation of randomization serves to elevate the creative experience, turning sound design into a joyful exploration.
Despite being tailored for a specific sound type, SuperStarSaw highlights the incredible versatility of sawtooth waves—a fact that producers of all skill levels should appreciate. While some may wish for broader waveform selections, the potent sound shaping it offers illustrates just how remarkable this beloved waveform can be when applied artfully. Create, experiment, and rediscover the awesomeness of supersaws—that’s the promise SuperStarSaw delivers.
Pros
- Exceptional supersaw sound quality with an impressive number of potential voices.
- In-depth controls for voice shaping.
- Dynamic morphing and modulation systems make patches expressive and performance-ready.
- Quick workflow with a visually appealing UI.
- One of the best preset libraries of any plugin reviewed.
- Randomization features inspire spontaneous creativity.
Cons
- Niche functionality compared to general-purpose synthesizers.
- Basic built-in effects that do not significantly enhance sound design.
- Lack of demo or trial version limits firsthand exploration.
