Acustica Audio launched its new Expanse5 virtual synthesizer for music producers and musicians. The software recreates the classic Sequential Prophet-5 synthesizer sound through digital technology. Expanse5 joins the company's MAREA product line as the latest addition. The instrument uses a special MUST engine that blends two different sound creation methods. This technology runs at very high internal speeds to produce cleaner audio quality.
The synthesizer offers modern features beyond the original hardware design. Users can adjust the stereo width through a feature called Superstereo that spreads sound across both speakers. An Age control adds the natural drift and small flaws found in older analog equipment. Musicians can choose between two and ten voices of polyphony depending on their needs. The default setting provides five voices for most playing situations.
Expanse5 contains two main sound generators that work together through cross-modulation and sync capabilities. The developers added a sub-oscillator to boost low-frequency content that the original lacked. Built-in effects include chorus, delay, reverb, and a multi-band saturator for professional sound processing. The instrument ships with more than 450 ready-made sounds from various creators. These presets cover many musical styles and performance needs.
The software costs 99 euros through July 14, 2025, as an introductory offer. After that date, the price increases to 169 euros for new buyers. Expanse5 works on both Mac and Windows computers through VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats. Musicians can try the synthesizer free for 30 days through the Aquarius Desktop application.
The synthesizer offers modern features beyond the original hardware design. Users can adjust the stereo width through a feature called Superstereo that spreads sound across both speakers. An Age control adds the natural drift and small flaws found in older analog equipment. Musicians can choose between two and ten voices of polyphony depending on their needs. The default setting provides five voices for most playing situations.
Expanse5 contains two main sound generators that work together through cross-modulation and sync capabilities. The developers added a sub-oscillator to boost low-frequency content that the original lacked. Built-in effects include chorus, delay, reverb, and a multi-band saturator for professional sound processing. The instrument ships with more than 450 ready-made sounds from various creators. These presets cover many musical styles and performance needs.
The software costs 99 euros through July 14, 2025, as an introductory offer. After that date, the price increases to 169 euros for new buyers. Expanse5 works on both Mac and Windows computers through VST3, AU, and AAX plugin formats. Musicians can try the synthesizer free for 30 days through the Aquarius Desktop application.
