SAURUS ANALOG SYNTHESIZER
Reference MANUAL
Legal Notice
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computer. Please contact our support team if you need additional licenses.
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Support and contact information
If you have any difficulties installing or using Saurus Analog Synthesizer, please contact
us by visiting our website and clicking the Support button.
Website http://www.tone2.com
User Forum http://www.tone2.org/forum/index.php
Support support@tone2.com
Credits
Development: Markus Feil, Bastiaan van Noord
Programming & Graphics: Markus Feil
Manual: Bastiaan van Noord, Jay Levzi
Sound design: Ed Ten Eyck (EDT), Himalaya (H), Massimo Bosco (MxS), Marco Scherer
(MAS), BigTone (BT) The Unshushable Coktor (TUC), Stephen Krajewski (SK), George
Zondagh (GZ), Jamie Docwra (JD), Grzegorz Bartoszek (GB), Reinhard Reschner (RR),
SupremeJA (SJA), Sean Charles (SC), Rob Fabrie (RF), Bryan Lee (XS), David Goodwin
(KRM), Daniela Schmidt (DS), Rob Lee (RL), Jay Levzi (JL), Bastiaan van Noord (BN),
Markus Feil (MF)
Thanks go to: Anna Krause, family and friends, and all Tone2 customers for their
continued support
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Introduction.......................................................................................................1
1.1 Welcome to Saurus Analog Synthesizer...................................................
1.2 Features....................................................................................................
2 Installation and Authorization.........................................................................2
2.1 Automatic installation for Mac & PC...........................................................
2.2 Manual installation for PC...........................................................................
2.3 Manual installation for Mac.........................................................................
3 Saurus Interface controls.................................................................................4
4 The Saurus interface.........................................................................................6
4.1 The patch browser.................................................................................
4.2 Main section.........................................................................................
4.3 Oscillator section..................................................................................
4.4 Filter section.........................................................................................
4.5 Envelopes.............................................................................................
4.6 LFOs.....................................................................................................
4.7 The Modulation Matrix..........................................................................
4.8 Arpeggiator & Gate..............................................................................
4.9 Effects sections & Boost.......................................................................
5 Modulation Matrix: the new X=value modifiers..............................................21
6 Tone2 Product Catalog................................................................................24-30
1. Introduction
1.1 Welcome to Saurus Analog Synthesizer
Congratulations on purchasing Tone2's Saurus Analog Synthesizer.
Saurus is a brand new synthesizer that uses true analogue modeling. Some of the circuits
from classic synthesizers were examined, analyzed and modeled into Saurus to bring the
best sonic quality of a past age brought forward in a digital one.
Saurus pairs two oscillators with two sub-oscillators employing both standard waveforms
and more exotic waveforms modeled after the classic units examined.
Combine this with a powerful filter section, an extensive modulation system in the form of
LFO's, Envelopes and a modulation matrix, all routed into a high quality effects section
giving Saurus an incredible array of sonic possibilities at your fingertips.
1.2 Features
• True Analog Modeling Technology
• High-end sound quality
• Covers all important aspects of traditional
analog synths
• Low CPU usage
• Mono, Legato & Polyphonic modes
employing analog voice management
• Two Syncable Oscillators and two Sub
Oscillator
• Offers not only standard waveforms like
square and saw but also includes a large
number of waveform types from exotic
analog synths
• Pulse Width Modulation and Oscillator
Sync applicable to every waveform
• Oscillator drift, phase and noise
modulation controls
• Noise FM, AM and ringmodulation for
Oscillators
• High quality analog filter section with
self-oscillation, nonlinearity, 6 filter
types, filter FM and filter feedback
• LFOs capable of running at audio-rate
• Arpeggiator section with extensive
configuration possibilities; chord
steps, step velocity,...
• Modulation Matrix with several new
modulation possibilities, including
unique modulation value modifiers
• Programmable gate
• 4x Stereo Unison modes with spread
and panning control
• Analog modeled Distortion and Tube
amp
• Optional (on/off) Psycho-Acoustic
processing
• High-end quality Effects
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2. Installation & authorization procedure
Together with the download link from Share-it you have received attached to the product
delivery email a keyfile called 'Saurus.t2k', this file contains your personal serial number &
your name and is used to unlock the full version.
Please note:we recommend for installations on Windows7 & Vista to be done with admin.
rights using 'Run as Administrator' for both the Saurus installer and host program.
2.1 Automatic Installation (recommended) for PC & Mac
1. Close your host (Logic, Live, Cubase, etc.)
2. Install the full version of the plugin. Note: the demo version can not be unlocked
3. Open your host program
4. Do a plugin rescan in the host if it does not list Saurus as plugin. Detailed
instructions on how to perform a rescan can be found in your host's manual
5. Open Saurus
6. Click on the registration box in the middle
7. Select your keyfile 'Saurus.t2k' to activate the full version
8. Restart the plugin. Note that some hosts programs may require a complete restart.
Click inside the activation screen to browse – select your Saurus keyfile.
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2.2 Manual installation for PC
1. Close your host (Cubase, Sonar, Samplitude, Live, etc.)
2. Install the full version of the plugin. Note: the demo version can not be unlocked.
3. Copy 'Saurus.t2k' to the VST directory. Steinberg hosts often use C:\Program
files\Steinberg\VSTplugins as the default plugin path. You can also take a look at
your host's folder configuration.Note that the 'Saurus.t2k' keyfile should be inside
the same folder the Saurus.dll is.
4. Open your host program.
5. Do a plugin rescan in the host if it does not list Saurus as plugin. Detailed
instructions on how to do a plugin rescan are found in your host's manual.
6. Open Saurus. Now the normal user interface appears. If this is not the case close
your host and go back to step 3 as most likely you did not copy the keyfile to the
right place.
2.3 Manual installation for Mac
1. Close your host (Logic, Digital Performer, Live, Cubase, etc.)
2. Install the full version of the plugin. Note: the demo version can not be unlocked.
3. Copy 'Saurus.t2k' to 'Library/Audio/Plug-ins'. The correct path for the file is:
'/Library/Audio/Plug-ins/Saurus.t2k'.
4. Open the host.
5. Do a plugin rescan in the host if it does not list Saurus as plugin. Detailed
instructions on how to do a plugin rescans are found in your host's manual.
6. Open Saurus. Now the normal user interface appears. If this is not the case close
your host and go back to step 3 as most likely you did not copy the keyfile to the
right place.
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3. Saurus Interface controls
Buttons
There are two types of toggle buttons in Saurus, one where clicking a button cycles
between all options available, a good example of this are the OSC1 oscillator waveform
selectors where clicking on the OSC1 button will cycle through its waveforms.
The other type is the toggle on/off buttons used for the Sync or Drift options, clicking on
these will either enable or disable the feature.
To speed up the selection process options can also be switched-to directly by clicking on
the light above or below the selection. Active selections are clearly shown as ‘glowing’ as if
illuminated by a lamp.
Rotary Knobs
The rotary knob control increments a parameter value linearly from a minimum threshold
value to a maximum threshold value.
To increase a knob’s setting value, turn it clockwise: click-and-hold the knob with your
mouse and then move it up and/or to the right. To decrease, move down and/or to the left,
or anti-clockwise.
If you press the Shift key on your keyboard and then click-and-hold the left mouse button
on a knob, you will have fine control.
There are two type of value ranges for the rotary knobs, depending on the parameter the
knob is controlling. There is the unipolar knob – that goes from zero to a positive value or
the bipolar knob – that goes from a minus value to through zero and then to a positive
amount.
Bipolar values are useful for setting modulation amounts (which can be positive or
negative) or pan where zero is the center.
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Context Menus
The small LCD-style screens contain some parameters that are actually context menus
(excluding the PARAMETER DISPLAY section).
Click on a parameter to show a context menu of options. Click on the desired setting to
select and close the menu. The display changes to show the current value.
In the example pictured above clicking on 'Tutorial' will open the category menu from which
you can choose a preset category to open, clicking on the preset name 'Analog Drift' will
open the list of all presets available from the Tutorial category.
Previous/Next
In Saurus, the left and right arrows in it’s browser are used to select the previous and
next patches (program) or category (bank)
Click the program up arrow to select the previous patch in the current category, click the
program down arrow to select the next patch in the current category. The browser display
changes to shows the newly selected patch.
Click the bank up arrow to select the previous patch category, click the bank down arrow to
select the next patch category. The browser display changes to show the current selected
patch category.
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4. The Saurus User Interface
The Saurus GUI is split into various sections. The oscillator section offers all controls over
the 2 main oscillators and the sub-oscillators.
The Filter section controls the filter to be used and various modulation methods. The
Effects section allows for full control of all the effects within Saurus.
There are also sections for the two LFO's and an additional envelope. The LFO's and Aux
Envelope can be routed by using the section for the Mod-Matrix and the Arp-Gate
sections. The main area is where the user can control the global settings for the synth
such as volume etc. The patch browser is where all banks and presets can be saved and
recalled. The keyboard and mod and pitch wheels can be played using a mouse control.
4.1 The Patch browser
The browser allows loading, saving and general patch management functionality.
In the blue display area of the browser you have two rows of information. The top row
shows the currently selected category. If you left or right click on the bank name, a dropdown list will appear where you can select any other category installed on your computer.
These will include the standard categories, any additional expansions bought from Tone2
or categories you created yourself.
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The bottom row shows the currently loaded patch. If you left or right click on the patch
name, a drop-down list will appear where you can select any patch in the current category.
The bottom right of the BROWSER window serves as a parameter indicator. If you alter
any parameter in Saurus’ interface, the parameter name and value will be displayed here.
Along the bottom of the patch window are 5 buttons.
The program buttons cycle through all the presets loaded in the current bank. The bank
buttons cycle through the various category lists in the bank loaded. The file button opens a
dialog menu where you can load or save a sound, download more sounds, visit the Tone2
website, view the manual or initialize various sections of the synth.
4.2 Main section
Inside the main section you'll several controls that have to do with general operation of
Saurus: Volume, Pan, Glide, Unison controls and the psycho-Acoustic boost switch.
Master voice mode selectors
Saurus offers both monophonic and polyphonic voice modes, the following modes are
available:
• Mono - This mode sets the polyphony to 1 note (monophonic) which mimics the way the
classic analog synthesizers of the past behaved. The envelopes are retriggered each time
a new note is played.
• Legato - This mode is also monophonic but if a new note is played while an
existing note is still being played it will glide to the new note without re-triggering
the envelopes.
• OldPoly8 - In this mode the Voice handling behaves similar to that on old 8 voice
polyphonic synthesizers. If the note is already playing and the same note is triggered
again the same voice will be used and the envelopes are retriggered in a soft way. The
advantage of this mode is that the voice mix will be less 'muddy' when melodies are
played in a fast way and the CPU usage is low.
• Poly16 - Modern, polyphonic voice handling with 16 voices.
The maximum number of voices playing at the same time is 64 when 4x Unison is used together
with Poly16 mode (64 = 16x4).
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Volume & RMS meter:
The volume knob controls the amount of output level send by the plugin, in the top right
of the Saurus interface you'll notice an RMS meter which displays the average output
power level.
When designing patches it is recommended to keep its level around 0dB. To do this you
can adjust Saurus' volume to reach 0dB with three keys pressed in Polyphonic modes or
one note in Monophonic mode.
Unison controls:
The Unison section offers both a 2x and 4x Unison mode which layers multiple copies of
the oscillator's sound. The Spread knob works in combination with the two Unison modes
and allows you to select the amount of detuning and spread to applied to the different
copies of the sound.
Note that With Unision mode activated the panning (Pan) control switches to controlling
the amount of stereo separation in the unison instead of the standard left/right pan control.
When Unison is off Pan will function as a standard panning control.
Glide knob:
The Glide adjusts how much the current note's
pitch glides to the next note's pitch, the default
setting for this knob is zero (no glide)
Boost control:
The Boost control found inside of the Volume
section will switch on the Psycho
Accoustic feature which dynamically boosts
frequencies giving an enhanced boosted sound
without drastically changing overall output
volume.
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4.3 Oscillator section
OSC1 & OSC2 – These buttons cycle between the various waveforms available for
oscillators 1 and 2, the current active waveform is highlighted.
The PW knob next to the waveform selectors will morph from the current wave into
another waveform, a description of all waveforms can be seen in the list below:
1. Saw - PW morphs to double saw
2. Square - PW morphs to Pulse and Peek
3. Trianguloid - A 4step Triangle-style waveform where PW morphs to 4-step Saw
4. Sinoid - A sinoid waveform; PW morphs to Square
5. Double square - Sounds similar to the PWM Sawtooth wave of the Alpha Juno. PW
morphs to Double pulse
6. Comb - Sounds similar to the Comb wave of the Alpha Juno. Good for vocaloid sounds;
PW morphs the vocal
7. Organ-stack - Several stacked waves which sound similar to the analog Farsivar Organs.
PW morphs to double saw
8. Double pulse - PW morphs to square wave
SUB 1 & 2 – The sub buttons cycle between the various waveforms available for sub
oscillators 1 and 2, the current selected sub oscillator waveform is highlighted.
The sub oscillator waveforms are:
1. Sawtooth - 1 octave lower
2. Square wave - 1 octave lower
3. Inverted Sawtooth - 1 octave lower
4. Square wave - 2 octaves lower
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5. 25% Pulse - 2 octaves lower
6. Sawtooth - 1 octave and sawtooth 2 octaves lower
7. Square wave - 1 octave and square wave 2 octaves lower
8. Triple saw - 2 octaves lower
PW – Adjusts the pulse width for the given waveform
MIX – Adjusts the mix amount between oscillator and sub oscillator.
TONE - Adjusts the tone control for this oscillator, which basically makes the sound for
that oscillator darker or brighter which can give the oscillator more bite or control the
higher harmonics for frequency modulation.
F/A Noise - The F/A Noise knob controls the amount of noise generated by either
Frequency modulation (FM)or Amplitude Modulation (AM)
The default setting for this knob is zero, turning the knob clockwise will increase the
amount of Amplitude Modulation applied whereas turning it counter clockwise will apply
and increase the amount of Frequency Modulation.
SYNC – Enabling the sync option will synchronize oscillator 2 to oscillator 1.
RING – This is the control for the amount of Ring Modulation to be used for both oscillator
1 and 2.
DETUNE – This is a control to adjust globally oscillator 1 and 2's fine tuning by +/- 100%
TUNE – This control adjusts the oscillators coarse tuning.
DRIFT – The drift control available from the oscillator section will apply a certain amount of
drift to the oscillators, allowing minor inconsistencies and resulting in a more authentic
analog sound.
Note that it is recommended to switch off Drift if Oscillator Sync is enabled, if both are
enabled it may lead to glitches and general degradation of how both features sound.
PHASE – this adjusts the starting phase of each oscillators waveform.
MIX 1 / 2 – This is the mix control for the amount of oscillator 1 and sub with oscillator 2
and sub.
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4.4 Filter section
DRIVE – This is the control to adjust the amount of extra gain to the oscillator audio signal
before it enters the filters. It can change the characteristics of the filter completely.
KEY – This is a bi-polar control that determines how the note played on the keyboard
affects the filter cut off frequency. At positive values above 0, higher note values will
increase the cut off frequency. At negative values below 0, higher note values will
decrease the cut off frequency.
CUTOFF – This is the cutoff control for the filter
RESO – The resonance of the filter
ENV – The filters envelope modulation amount. The values for the envelope itself can be
set in the ADSR controls in the filter section.
SOFT – The control for non linearity and saturation in the filter. If “soft” is activated, the
filter will sound more analogue and resonance will be less aggressive.
FILTER SELECTION BUTTON – This chooses the type of filters available in Saurus, these
include
I. 12dB Low Pass, a precise model of an analogue chamberlain filter with self oscillation and
non-linearity with a little feedback. It has character which is similar to the MS-20
II. 12dB High Pass, a precise model of an analogue chamberlain filter
III. 12dB Band Pass, a precise model of an analogue chamberlain filter
IV. 24dB Low Pass, a precise model of an analogue butterworth filter with self oscillation and
non linearity.
V. Notch filter
VI. Formant filter
FM – This determines the amount of Frequency Modulation (FM) applied to the filter.
FEEDBA. - This is the feedback control for the filter, it controls how much of the signal is
fed back into the filter.
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4.5 Envelopes
There are two envelopes in Saurus that are directly tied to the relevant section they
appear in, the Amp Envelope in the global section, and the filter envelope. But Saurus
offers an additional envelope called Aux (Auxiliary). This can be used for further
modulation of various parameters which can be assigned to the envelope inside
the modulation matrix.
What is an Envelope?
An envelope generator allows a synthesizer to mimic acoustic instruments’ properties of
changing volume and timbre over time. Traditionally, an envelope generator produced a
control voltage that varied over time which could be used to automatically change the filter
cut off or amplifier volume.There are many different types of envelopes but the most common
one is known as an ADSR which is an acronym for Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release which
describes the four controls of the envelope.
Attack – Is a time value which states how long it takes for the envelope to go from zero to
maximum peak when a key is pressed.
Decay – is a time value which states how long it takes for the envelope to drop to the
sustain level.
Sustain – Is a level value which states the highest value while the key is being held down
after the Attack, Hold and Decay stages.
Release – Is a time value which states how long it takes for the the envelope to drop back
down to zero after the key has been released.
4.6 LFOs
There are two LFO's available within Saurus. Both are freely assignable from within the
modulation matrix and can be used basically anything from modulating the filter cutoff to
modulating an oscillator's waveform (LFO>PWM)
LFO WAVEFORM BUTTON – This cycles
the waveform for the LFO to be used. The
available waveforms are :
I) Triangle
II) Square
III) Saw
IV) Ramped random
Note: Additional LFO waveforms (Like a sinoid or smoothed versions) can be created by using
the filter (X) function in the matrix.
FREQ. - This controls at which frequency the LFO runs; the LFO speed
BPM – This will synchronize the LFO's frequency to the host.
PHASE – This will adjust the starting position of the LFO's waveform, when the knob is
turned completely to the left it the LFO will be free running.
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4.7 Modulation Matrix
The MOD MATRIX or Modulation Matrix is a system that allows you to flexibly assign
different modulators (such as LFOs or envelopes) to different destinations (such as the
filter, amplifier or even other modulators).
There are three modulation matrix pages available, each offering 5 different assignable
modulation options.
To use the mod matrix the procedure is very simple :
1. Choose a modulator (modulation source) in the drop-down menu. This is what
causes the modulation or changing effect
2. Choose a target (destination) in the drop-down menu. This is what gets affected
by the modulation or changing effect.
3. Drag the slider in the center of the bar left or right in a negative (left) or positive
(right) direction to increase or decrease the values.
Source menu options:
Off : Default matrix source is set to off
Vol Env : The Volume envelope will be used as
modulation source
Filt Env : The Filter envelope will be used as
modulation source
Aux Env : The Auxilary envelope will be used as
modulation source
LFO1+- : LFO1 in bipolar mode as modulation
source, this uses LFO1's negative and positive
values
LFO2+- : LFO2 in bipolar mode as modulation
source, this uses LFO1's negative and positive
values
LFO1+ : LFO1 in unipolar mode as modulation source, only uses LFO1's positive values
LFO2+ : LFO1 in unipolar mode as modulation source, only uses LFO1's positive values
Arp/Step+ : Applies the arp's velocity steps as modulation source using only positive values
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Arp/Step+- : Applies the arp's velocity steps as modulation source using both positive and
negative values
Key up : Applies a On/Off Gate modulation; i.e, on key press its value is 1, on release it's 0
Key down : Applies a Off/On Gate modulation; i.e, on key press its value is 0, on release its 1
VoiceOut : Applies the amount of active Voices value to modulate
Constant: Applies a constant value to modulate, the amount is set by the value slider
Random : A random value will be used to modulate
Flipflop : An on/off value will be used as modulation source; could for example be used to pan
from left to right on keypress
WhiteNoise : Uses white noise as modulation source
PinkNoise : Uses pink noise as modulation source
Impulse : A short impulse is used as modulation source; could for example be applied to sharpen
the attack portion of a sound
Decay4ms > Decay16s : Decay will use an internal envelope to modulate, options are envelopes
that run from 4 milliseconds to 16 seconds.
X*X : Uses the X multiplied by X value modifier as modulation source
Sqrt (X) : Uses Squareroot X value modifier as modulation source
Filter (X) : Uses the filter X value modifier as modulation source
Limit (X) : Uses the Limit X value modifier as modulation source
Key : Uses the played note value as modulation source
Velocity+ : Uses the postive Velocity values to modulate
Velocity+- : Uses both the positive and negative Velocity values to modulate
Modwheel : Uses the Modulation Wheel as modulation source
Pitchwheel : Uses the Pitch Wheel as modulation source to modulate
Aftertouch : Uses the keyboard's incoming aftertouch values to modulate
Breath : Responds to breath controller (CC#2) as modulation source
Foot : Responds to Foot switch controller as modulation source
MainVol : Responds to Main Volume controller (CC#7) as modulation source
Express : Responds to Expression controller (CC#11) as modulation source
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Hold : Responds to Hold pedal (sustain) on/off (CC#69) as modulation source
CC16 > CC 19 : Responds to CC#16 to CC#19 (continuous controllers) as modulation source
Destination menu options:
Off - The default selection; no
modulation destination is selected
Volume - Selects the Master Volume
control as destination
Pan – Selects the Master Panning
control as destination
Spread – Selects the Unison Spread
control as modulation destination
Cutoff - Selects the Filter Cutoff as
modulation destination
Reso - Selects the Filter Resonance
as modulation destination
FM - Selects the Filter FM control as modulation destination
Drive - Selects the Filter Drive control as modulation destination
Feedback - Selects the Filter Feedback control as modulation destination
FilterEnv – Selects the Filter Envelope control as modulation destination
Osc1 Tune - Selects OSC1's Tune control as destination
Osc2 Tune - Selects OSC1's Tune control as destination
Osc Mix ½ - Selects the Oscillator1 / Oscillator2 Mix control as destination
Osc1 PWM - Selects OSC1's Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control as destination
Osc2 PWM - Selects OSC2's Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control as destination
Osc1 Mix - Selects the Mix control for Oscillator1 / Sub-Oscillator1 as destination
Osc2 Mix – Selects the Mix control for Oscillator2/ Sub-Oscillator2 as destination
Osc1 Tone - Selects OSC1's Tone control as destination
Osc2 Tone - Selects OSC2's Tone control as destination
Osc1 Noise - Selects OSC1's Noise control as destination
Osc2 Noise - Selects OSC2's Noise control as destination
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Osc Detune - Selects the oscillator Detune control as destination
Osc Ring - Selects the Ring modulation control as destination
Osc1 Fine - Selects OSC1's Fine tune control as destination
Osc2 Fine - Selects OSC2's Fine tune control as destination
Osc1 Semi - Selects OSC1's Semi notes control as destination
Osc2 Semi - Selects OSC2's Semi notes control as destination
Osc Oct - Selects the Master Octave as destination
Osc1 Oct - Selects OSC1's Octave as destination
Osc2 Oct - Selects OSC2's Octave as destination
Osc Pitch – Selects the Master Pitch as destination
Osc1 Pitch - Selects OSC1's Pitch control as destination
Osc2 Pitch - Selects OSC2's Pitch control as destination
LFO1 Speed - Selects LFO1's Frequency control as destination
LFO2 Speed - Selects LFO2's Frequency control as destination
Vol A - Selects the Volume Envelope's Attack control as destination
Vol D - Selects the Volume Envelope's Decay control as destination
Vol S - Selects the Volume Envelope's Sustain control as destination
Vol R- Selects the Volume Envelope's Release control as destination
Filt A - Selects the Filter Envelope's Attack control as destination
Filt D - Selects the Filter Envelope's Decay ccontrol as destination
Filt S - Selects the Filter Envelope's Sustain control as destination
Filt R- Selects the Filter Envelope's Release control as destination
Aux A - Selects the Auxilary Envelope's Attack control as destination
Aux D - Selects the Auxilary Envelope's Decay ccontrol as destination
Aux S - Selects the Auxilary Envelope's Sustain control as destination
Aux R - Selects the Auxilary Envelope's Release control as destination
X:=Value – Selects the X:=Value destination
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Matrix1 -> Matrix15 – Sets the modulation destination to matrix position 1 through 15
Osc1 Vol - Selects Osc1's volume control as destination
Osc2 Vol - Selects Osc2's volume control as destination
Noise Vol – Selects an internal noise generator as destination
4.8 Gate & Arpeggiator
Saurus also features a dedicated Gate which can be used to modulate volume or any
other option within Saurus' modulation system.
When the Arp/Gate menu is switched to one of the Gate modes the steps will function as
a modulation value provider, meaning that each step will output a specific value, these
values can then be routed within the Modulation Matrix to setup a Trance gate or drive
other types of modulation.
The step values can be edited by click-holding one of the small rectangle shaped steps
and dragging them up or down to in/decrease their value.
Note that when in Arp mode these same steps can still be used for Gate and/or modulation
purposes, the main difference between the Arp and Gate mode is that in Arp mode the
Arpeggiator is also active.
Saurus ships with some very good Trance and modulation gate presets, just open the
patch manager and browse to the Gate category to hear some examples.
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Arpeggiator
Saurus has an incredibly powerful arpeggiator with several unique features like the ability
to program chord steps, release steps, step velocity and many other ways to program the
perfect arp sequence.
A description of all arpeggiator menu options is found below:
ARP/ GATE mode menu - This menu is used to set the Arpeggiator / Gate mode
• Arp Sync: Enables the arp; synchronized to song
• Arp Trigger: Enables the arp; retriggers on key press
• Gate Sync: Disables the arp and uses the gate only; synchronized to song
• GateTrigger: Disables the arp and uses the gate only; retriggers the gate on key press
BPM menu - (Default 1BPM) The tempo function sets the speed for the arpeggiator in
multiples of the tempo of your host program. Whole divisions of the tempo (default is 1
BPM – the ARPEGGIATOR's tempo which is the same as the host's tempo). 2 BPM is
twice the host's tempo. 8 BPM is eight times the host's tempo, etc. Divisions of the tempo
e.g. 2/3 BPM is two thirds of the hosts' s tempo.
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ARP Range menu - The ARP Range menu is used to set the range of notes used by
the arp. When set to normal it will default to playing the current played note only, other
settings will generate additional notes based on the menu's current setting and which
notes are played.
Note Order menu - This menu is used to set the preferred note order
• . - no note is played
• +1 - Plays one note higher
• +2 - Plays two notes higher
• +3 - Plays three notes higher
• -1 - Plays one note lower
• -2 - Plays two notes lower
• -3 - three three notes lower
• ? - Plays a random higher/lower note
• 2x - Doubles the note for that step
• +2x - Doubles the note for that step and plays two higher
• -2x - Doubles the note for that step and plays two lower
• 3x - Triples the note for that step
• +3x - Triples the note for that step and plays three higher
• -3x - Triples the note for that step and plays three lower
• All - Plays all current held notes on this step
• SL - Restart note reorder from lowest key
• SH - Restart note reorder from highest key
• S? - Restart note reorder from random key
• R - Triggers the envelope's release phase
• L - Run arp sequence till here and loop
• LE - Run arp sequence till here and stop (one shot)
Note menu - The Note menu is used to set which note should be played on this step,
a dot (.) denotes that the currently played note should be used, all other choices in this
menu denote semi notes up/down.
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Swing menu - The Swing menu is used to set the amount of swing used in the arp
playback (Default Straight)
To create a more 'human' feel to the arpeggiator, you can increase the amount of 'swing'
from 0 (no swing) to 99 (full swing). The swing feature alternately delays and rushes the
arpeggiator steps to add feel.
Velocity / Gate menu - The Velocity/Gate section consists of a step sequencer that
you can use to set the amount of velocity per step. This is used in conjunction with the
Modulation Matrix in which the velocity should be assigned to the preferred modulation
target.
4.9 Effects
Saurus contains three major effects that can be used globally. These are :
I) Chorus – a stereo chorus effect with speed and depth controls, the mix amount
controls the ratio of dry signal to wet signal.
II) Reverb – a reverb effect with size and damping controls to fine tune the reverb
amounts and its effect.
III) Delay - A synchronized delay (To host's tempo) with controllable mix amounts
and feedback amounts.
IV) Tube – This controls the amount of analogue tube warmth to be added to the signal.
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5. Modulation Matrix: the new value modifiers
New in Saurus is the option to use a modifier on the source value, this allows for a
smoother control over the original source often giving better results then using direct
modulation.
This new modifier approach uses four new modulation sources called: Filter(X), X*X,
Sqrt(X) and Limit(X) X=Value, as well as a new destination target called X=Value
As an example, let's say we want to use LFO1 to modulate the cutoff, however instead of
the direct LFO1>Cutoff ModMatrix option we'll use a modifier to do this:
* The first thing to do would be to assign a modulation source to our destination X=Value.
* Go into the modmatrix and on the first line assign LFO1+- to the destination X=Value, set
the slider for this to +80
* Next we'll assign one of our modifiers to the Cutoff; on the second matrix line assign
Filter(X) to cutoff and set its slider to +70.
You may have to increase the LFO rate a bit but you should now hear the LFO filtering the
cutoff by using our Filter(X) modifier.
What Filter(X) in this case does is apply a low pass filter to the value of X, in other words
in the first line we declared that the LFO1+- function was X and on the second line we told
Saurus to use the Filter(X) modifier to further modify X's value.
There are currently four modifiers available:
• Filter(X) - Filters values, very handy to use with for example trance gates to shape
the type of volume gate used.
• X*X - Can be used to further shape modify envelopes, for punchier envelopes for
example.
• Sqrt(X) - Also very good to further shape modify envelopes with.
• Limit(X) - Can be used to limit a the amount of modulation by clipping its value
within a certain range set with the value slider.
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Another example would be to use the X:=Value modifier to program/adjust a Trancegate.
Next to the usual Gate > Volume Modulation Matrix way of setting up a trancegate Saurus
now also includes the option to use a value modifier on your trancegate.
The advantage of using a modifier in this case is that it will allow you to manipulate the
type of gate, e.g. a smoother or harder type of volume cut.
The following steps will describe how to set this up:
1. Open Saurus
2. In the File menu select INIT ALL to reset all synth features to their default state
3. The first thing we want to do is to setup our Gate, Inside the ARP section click on
the Arp/Gate label to show the arp and gate, at the bottom left of this section click
on the off label to open the menu; in this menu select Gate Trigger, what this does
is use the Gate section triggered on key press.
The Gate section itself is made up of 16 steps, each step (currently set at -100)
represents a value that can be adjusted from -100 to +100 and used to modulate
whatever is linked to the Arp/Step+- and Arp/Step+ inside of the Modulation Matrix
sources.
4.
For this example let's go for a classic type of gate, you can see the gate's layout in
the picture below, you'll also note I've set the amount of BPM to 2, no particular
reason it just sounds better.
Next we'll setup the Modulation Matrix:
5. Click on the Matrix1 label to display page 1 of the ModMatrix
6. Let's begin by routing our modulation source to the X:=Value modifier, on line 1
select Arp/Step+- as our modulation source, for our modulation destination we
select X:=Value, set the value slider to 100+
7. The next thing to do is to assign a type of modifier to the intended destination, in our
case that would be the Volume. Go to line 2 of the matrix, select Filter(X) as the
mod source and Volume as the destination, set this slider to 80+.
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Play a note on your keyboard and you should now hear the volume being gated, the nice
thing about the modifier being in between the Gate and Volume is that we use the
modifier's value slider to adjust our gate, give it a try by moving the second slider from left
to right and you'll notice that the gate will change from a hard volume cut to a smoother
volume cut.
What the Filter(X) in this case does is apply low-pass filtering to the values used for the
gate.
Below you'll see a picture of our Matrix setup:
- Tone2 Audiosoftware Catalog
Be sure to take a look at some of our other effect & synthesizer plugins, the following
pages will provide a short overview of part of our product line.
For more information on our products, MP3s and product demos please visit our website
at http://www.tone2.com
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ElectraX synthesizer
ElectraX! Explore the vast musical universe of multi-synthesis oscillators, analog modeled
filters, chaotic fractals, samples, psychoacoustic processing, flexible modulation and an
immense sonic range.
Combine multiple polyphonic or monophonic synthesizers and 13 different synthesis
methods to create incredible results while the well-designed preset management system
provides access to a large library of sounds carefully crafted by professional designers.
Features - summary
• Four synthesizers in one interface
• High-end sound quality
• Huge sonic range
• High flexibility
• 13 different synthesis methods which can be combined
• Psychoacoustic processing
• Low CPU, multicore processor support
• Easy to use
• 4x multitimbral, 4x stereo unison
• Over 1000 sounds in 575 presets by professional sound designers
• 32 exclusive analog modeled filter types
• 45 oscillator types
• 18 effect types; Master effect section with Equalizer
• More than 1000 waveforms
• 64x4 voices
• Midi learn
• Customizable user interface with 4 skins
• Expandability
• Standalone version for PC
• Flexible preset management
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Features per synthesizer (4 synthesizers available)
• Several playmodes: Monophonic, legato, polyphonic, glide
• 3 multi-synthesis oscillators
• Dual multimode filters
• Dual multimode distortion/waveshaper
• 3 LFOs (global or per voice) and a Step LFO, BPM syncable
• Four Envelope generators
• Arpeggiator
• Insert effect, BPM syncable
• Flexible modulation
• Key splitting
Synthesis methods & OSC features
• Virtual analog
• FM
• Sample playback and import of own samples with loop/sustain loop support
• Wavetables with resynthesis function and the ability to load own waveforms
• Ultrasaw (up to 18 detuned oscillators per voice)
• Fractal (a completely new synthesis method)
• Phase distortion
• Waveshaping
• Exclusive oscillator types
• PWM
• Sync
• Noise
• Ringmod
• Vocoder
• Analog oscillator drift modeling
• Fat tuning
18 warm sounding effect types
• Reverbs: Hall, Cathedral, Room
• Delays: Delay, Delay band, Ping Pong, Multitap
• Chorus, Ensemble, Phaser, Flanger, Rotary
• Trancegate, Compressor, Ampsim, Equalizer, Surround Encode
• Vocoder
23 exclusive filter types
• 11 analog modeled filters with self oscillation: Lowpass/Highpass/Bandpass
• 12dB/18dB/24dB, Moog, Filter-FM
• High precision digital filters: Lowpass, Highpass, Bandpass, Notch
• Equalizers: LowShelf, HighShelf, Peak, Wide
• Special types: Phaser, Comb+, Comb-, Vocals, Aliaser, Ringmod
• Exclusive fractal filters
For more information: http://www.tone2.com/html/electrax_synthesizer__vst_au.html
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Gladiator2 Synthesizer
The award winning Gladiator gives you a groundbreaking approach to sound generation.
Its exclusive HCM synthesis technique covers new and unique aural territory, only possible
with Gladiator. The innovative synthesis, design and unmatched sound quality, make this
not only the perfect instrument, but also the best virtual synthesizer and go-to instrument
for all those looking for the ultimate creative tool.
Synthesis types supported by Gladiator 2 are:
• Tone2's award winning Harmonic Content Morphing synthesis (HCM)
• Frequency Modulation (FM) & Amplitude Modulation (AM)
• Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
• Analog osciallators
• Resynthesized instruments
• Vocoder sounds
• Oscillator sync
• Phase Distortion
• Phase Modulation
• Waveshaping
• Super-saw
• Additive synthesis
• Sample playback
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Filters
The analog modeled filter section uses high-end quality stereo filters, most of which are
exclusive to Tone2 products.
Gladiator 2 ships with 40 different filter types: Moog, Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass,
Vocals, Comb, EQ, FM, AM,
Phaser, Resample, Analog, ...
Sounds
Gladiator 2 ships with an inspiring library of 1105 outstanding presets from top sound
designers. Besides that a variety of expansion banks is available to further expand
Gladiator's features and preset library. All sounds are arranged into categories for easy
access to the sound you require.
Modulation
Gladiator 2 has a powerful and flexible modulation section which is easy to setup. The
analog modeled envelopes sound punchy. LFOs offer 22 different waveforms and can be
synced to BPM. The Step LFO's design was inspired by the old analog step sequencers
and can be used to create rhythmic sequences and trance gates.
With 'midi-learn' you can assign your hardware controller with a single mouse click.
Psychoacoustic processing
The exclusive IQM algorithm (Intelligent Microtuning) makes the synthesizer sound fatter
and cleaner by automatically detuning notes for lush chords.
The innovative phase modulator module in the OSC section is based on the latest
knowledge in phonetic science. It makes a digital spectrum sound warm, silky and
analogue.
A special post-processing module in Gladiator mimics effects of the human ear. It creates
deeper basses and more transparency.
• True high-end quality: Analog, warm, crystal clear, rich sound
• New synthesis method (HCM)
• New unique sounds which no other synthesizer can create
• Huge sonic range
• Boundless possibilities
• Psychoacoustic processing
• Different synthesis methods can be combined freely
• Flexibility, expandability
• Easy to use
• Low CPU and high reliability
• 1135 professional preset sounds included
For more information: http://www.tone2.com/html/gladiator_2_vsti_au_synthesize.html
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Warmverb Multi Effect
Warmverb is a multi-effect unit which gives you the flexibility to create unique sounding
custom effects with a mouse click. Not only can it do classic effects with pristine sound
quality - it can do crazy stuff like a 'distorted-reverb-phaser-feedback-vocoder'!
Equipped with the high quality reverb technology which can be found in our Gladiator
synthesizer, Warmverb improves upon it by including an ultra version of the reverb.
With an easy to use interface, an intelligent randomize function and over 150 presets,
Warmverb gives you instant access to a large selection of essential effects and inspiring
new sounds.
Effect modules
• 3 high-end quality Reverbs
• Vocoder and Vocoder L-R
• Delay, Ping pong delay, Filtered Ping pong
• Chorus, Ensemble
• Flanger, Stereo Flanger
• Superstrings
• Phaser, Stereo phaser
• LFO Low pass, Band pass and High pass
• Talkbox
• Tubeamp, Transistor, Presence, Hardclip
• Bitcrush, Waveshape
• Rotary
• Dolby Prologic II surround encoding
• Tremelo
• Autopanning
• Stereo enhancing
• Stereoizer
• Equalizer
• Ringmod
• Trancegate
• Early reflections (3 different types)
• Pitch shifter
• Feedback module
For more information: http://www.tone2.com/html/warmverb_vst_au_effect_synthes.html
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AkustiX Enhancer Effect
Tone2 AkustiX is a collection of six essential enhancement tools combined into one
intuitive user interface. Ideal for tracks as well as full mixes AkustiX features six powerful
effects: Psycho EQ, Ultra Stereo, Phase Enhance, Multi Exciter, Smart Filter and Stereo
Width.
Each effect is based on the latest developments in research and offers multiple ways to
enhance the sound of your recordings drastically by using psycho-acoustic processing.
Unlike competing enhancers AkustiX is easy to use and works well with nearly all kinds of
material. It's a one-click solution to make your mix sound professional without knowing
about mastering-voodoo.
• Six essential effects to complement your track and mastering process
• Add brightness, transparency, fatness, vibrancy and depth to your mix
• Restore and revitalize old recordings
• Drastically enhances stereo mixes
• Exclusive new technology based on the latest in psychoacoustics research
• Elegant and intuitive user interface
• High-end quality processing
• Powerful spectrum analyzer & phase meter to visualize imaging and phase
• Suitable for mix, mastering and signal restoration purposes
• Ships with professional presets for a broad range of mix & mastering tasks
For more information: http://tone2.com/html/akustix_enhancer_vst_au_effect.html
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Filterbank 3 Effect
Tone2 FilterBank3 is more than an analog modeled filter plugin - it is a complete VST synthesizer
and a flexible multi-effect unit. The modular design and flexible modulation routing give you nearly
unlimited possibilities. With self-oscillating filters, oscillators and feedback it can create complete
sequences and textures. FilterBank sounds impressive and unique. The built-in step sequencer
can create rhythmic sequences with some mouse clicks.
• 58 different high-end quality dual-stereo filters
• Outstanding sound quality
• Flexible, semi - modular architecture and routing
• Virtual-analog OSCs/LFOs
• FM, AM, feedback
• 20 Delay types, Reverb, 12 Distortion types
• 320 presets included
• Can be loaded as synthesizer as well as effect
• Vocal filtering, equalizing, phasing, flanging, compressing, envelope following
• 303-like step sequencer
• Midi learn
• Syncable to BPM
• Realtime frequency display
• Dolby Prologic II compatible
• Easy to use
For more information: http://www.tone2.com/html/filterbank3_vsti_vst_au_synthe.html
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