ANALOGySTR

ANALOGySTR Retro String Machine (AUv3)

ANALOGySTR is a virtual instrument plugin that can run standalone, or in any AU compatible host such as Logic Pro or GarageBand. Please note that the standalone version does not include a built-in keyboard - you need to connect a suitable MIDI device to play the synth.

Overview

ANALOGySTR is a tribute to the analog string synthesizers made in the 1970's which are still popular today for good reason. From Pink Floyd to Jean-Michel Jarre, from The Cure to Air, chances are you've heard these "string machines" on countless recordings. Funnily enough, because of the limited technology at the time, they don't actually sound a lot like real strings, but have a distinct tonal character of their own which has become iconic and much loved. Based on sub-octave divider oscillators originally developed for transistor organs, the basic sounds are somewhat thin and reedy but the addition of phaser and "ensemble" effects gives the instruments their distinctive sound and huge appeal.

ANALOGySTR has three different base "string" tones that can be blended, and further shaped with high and low pass filters to emulate the limited frequency response of the vintage instruments. Of course, no string machine emulation would be complete without the "ensemble" and phaser effects and ANALOGySTR includes both in its dedicated effects section, with the option to process the signal in classic mono, or super-wide stereo mode. A variable size "plate" type reverb with mono / stereo options completes the effects section.

Please note that ANALOGySTR is not intended to be a replica or digital emulation of a specific instrument, but its design and development was heavily influenced by those classic old machines. And while I like to think ANALOGySTR does get pretty close to those vintage string machine tones, it can also stray into other sonic territory, and the presets include examples of organ, choir and synth pad type sounds.

MIDI Implementation

ANALOGySTR is a 16 voice polyphonic "somewhat" (*) velocity-sensitive MIDI instrument and is playable over a keyboard range from A0 (21) to C7 (96) on any MIDI channel. ANALOGySTR also responds to mod wheel / vibrato (CC#1), expression / volume (CC#11), sustain (CC#64), all notes off (CC#123) and pitch-bend (+/- 2 semitones).

(*) Notes will be slightly louder as you play harder, but the dynamic range is reduced slightly. ANALOGySTR does not currently respond to breath controller or after-touch messages.

About The UI

Not everyone likes the UIs of my latest (2025) plugins - I get it. However, the simplistic and generic approach allows me to (a) 99% focus on the DSP, sound quality and CPU performance, and (b) significantly reduce the development (and potential maintenance) time, which is reflected in my pricing.


For more info and support please visit:

www.waverley-instruments.com/robjackson