Since its launch, Arturia’s Pigments has built a reputation as one of the most powerful soft synths available to modern producers. This cutting-edge software instrument unlocks a whole universe of sound, giving music makers advanced control over every aspect of synthesis, modulation and FX processing.
The latest update to Pigments, version 3.5, brings even more functionality to this versatile synthesizer, adding a host of exciting new features, workflow enhancements, and phenomenal presets to vastly expand the capabilities of this game-changing instrument. Now more than ever before, Pigments is the go-to synth for producers working in EDM, bass, grime, dubstep and more.
Let’s dive into some of the new features found in Arturia’s Pigments 3.5. This update brings CrossMod to Pigments, opening up a world of sonic possibilities through the power of modulation. For the first time, music makers can use one of Pigments’ four synth engines to modulate another, generating fascinating new timbres, mind-bending textures and wild sonic atmospheres through frequency modulation. This means Pigments is now capable of producing next-level sounds spanning the spectrum from red-hot leads, to cavernous bass, to alien soundworlds.
Arturia has also beefed up Pigments with new and shockingly powerful effects capabilities. With an all-new distortion module, the instrument is now capable of utilizing 16 distortion algorithms to generate everything from gentle lo-fi warmth to ferocious sonic degradation. The distortion module is kitted out with a built-in filter that’s perfect for subtle sound-shaping, meaning music makers can dial in the perfect level of drive for any application.
Another fantastic evolution in Pigments' FX potential is the addition of their expanded Comb Filter. This unique and versatile filter type can be put to use in a number of ways, producing otherworldly, futuristic tones through the use of feedback delay and even imitating the natural sonic profile of acoustic instruments. The upgraded Comb Filter in Pigments 3.5 brings three new damped modes, LP6, BP6 and HP6, each of which filter out a specific frequency range within the feedback loop and increasing the level of control available within the Comb Filter.
On top of these transformative new features, Arturia have made several tweaks and improvements to Pigments’ workflow and interface that make it even easier to craft jaw-dropping sonics. The Sample Engine now benefits from an enhanced browser that lets producers organise their sample library and identify the perfect sample with just a few clicks. The synth’s GUI has also been re-engineered to simplify navigation and keep menu-diving to a minimum, making for an efficient and streamlined workflow.
That should be enough to excite even the most skeptical synthesist, but if not, there’s more. Arturia are known for putting together next-level Sound Banks that provide endless sonic inspiration, and with this update, they’ve announced the release of three more, in a trio they’re calling The Energy Triad. Each Sound Bank is loaded with 150 presets dedicated to a particular genre and sound, meaning music makers can develop their style and craft exactly the sound they’re looking for.
First up we have Trap Chemical, a Sound Pack devoted to the uncompromising sounds of trap music. The punchy, bold sonics found in trap music are now accessible to Pigments users through 150 presets that capture the essence of the genre: wall-shaking subs, chest-rattling kicks and stunning one-shots that are guaranteed to get trap and drill producers excited.
For those that like things a little more uptempo, Arturia have put together a Sound Bank called EDM Kinetic, aimed at capturing the limitless energy and spark of modern EDM. Fizzing, technicolour arpeggios, stratospheric leads and shimmering textures form the basis of this collection, which contains everything producers need to light up their next club banger.
Last but not least, there’s Bass Thermal, a one-stop shop for everything low-end. This colossal pack of presets makes Pigments a solid contender for the best synth for grime, dubstep and D&B producers, delivering everything from classic wub-wub bass to fierce, distorted leads and synth stabs that’ll leap out of the mixdown.
Pigments 3.5 is available now for a discounted price of between $49 and $99, knocking $100 off the original RRP. All three Sound Banks are available for $29.99, with each priced at $19.99 individually.