Concept 2 is the update to the award-winning Concept synth from Krotos. In an effort to make synthesis simple, Krotos has made this synth look deceptively basic, but it’s not and ignoring it would be a mistake.
In this video for Production Expert, Brent March looks at some of the new features in the recently updated Concept 2 by Krotos, which now includes a new granular synthesis engine.
Designed for music creators, not coders, Concept 2 includes over 700 presets from top artists - including Roni Size, Richard Devine, and Kayla Painter - and over 160 impulse responses for its integral convolution processor.
Workflow And Endless Sound Possibilities
The improved workflow makes getting a unique sound simple. I particularly like the seemingly endless sonic possibilities via the drag and drop functionality, that allows for incredible flexibility to create everything from lush pads, cinematic soundscapes, ambiences, basses, plucks and leads, drops, hits and FX. Concept 2 opens up endless possibilities for sound designers, producers, and composers.
The All-New Granular Engine
The new granular oscillator comes packed with over 300 source audio files or can be loaded with any audio file from your hard drive. Slice the source material into micro-segments before manipulating, looping, and applying modulation and effects.
Modulation and Effects
The new advanced shape modulator lets you draw your own modulation curves, breaks, and shapes to use as envelopes or LFOs, using standard geometric tools like breakpoints and curve tools. You can also patch together multiple instances of modulators giving you a wide palette of evolving movements for your sounds.
Pros
Simple and powerful - what’s not to love?
Low cost compared to other synth plugins
The new Granular Oscillator, Advanced Shape Modulator and Impulse Responses allow for unlimited sound design possibilities
700 plus presets, a great source for inspiration
Audio Input is a neat feature
Cons
It doesn’t look as striking as it sounds, which means some people may miss it.
Some compatibility issues with Studio One and FL, although it’s a DAW issue.
Final Thoughts
The first version of the Concept was great start, however, the underlying engine was a bit too simple for some users. With the addition of a granular synthesis engine and the enhanced modulation power, Concept 2 is a far more extensive and unique proposition for virtual synth buyers. If you're looking for a simple synth that creates incredibly powerful patches, Concept 2 is definitely worth a look.
Krotos have made an enviable reputation in the world of sound design, anyone working in sound design, composition or games is going to find Concept 2 a winner. However, Krotos has also worked hard to make sure those making music have plenty to love.
It bears repeating so we’ll say it again, it’s easy to ignore Concept 2, that would be a mistake. At the current deal price it’s a bargain worth grabbing. Download the demo and see what we mean.
Concept 2 comes in VST, VST3, AAX and AU format and carries a regular price of $149 and is currently on sale for just $99 until July 18th 2021. Concept Owners can upgrade to version 2 for free.
For full details, to buy or download a demo, head to Krotos’ website.