SubLab XL
by Future Audio Workshop · Synth · 808 / sub-bass synth
Not rated yet
Bass instrument for 808s and sub-basses with a Super Oscillator, sampled 808 layers, effects and LFO modulation.
Best for: Bass. Genres: Hip-Hop & Trap, Electronic & EDM.
Keywords: basses, drum machine, hardware emulation, digital classic, 90s, inspired by, macro controls, sample-based, sidechain input, subtle, tempo-synced, thick.
What it does
SubLab XL is Future Audio Workshop's bass instrument for 808s and sub-basses, expanding on the original SubLab.
- Super Oscillator: layers saw, triangle or square waves for thick supersaws or subtler Moog-style bass, alongside the standard sine, triangle, saw and square waves.
- Samples: hundreds of kicks, transients and 808 samples from gear such as Minimoog, Roland TR-808/909/707, Waldorf Blofeld and Korg Volca units.
- Effects: six distortion types, waveshaper, tape emulation, two bitcrushers, ten noise types and a compressor with auto sidechain; up to four effects in any order.
- Modulation: LFOs for two parameters at once, with tempo sync and a macro page.
Compared with SubLab, the developer lists more bass packs (10 vs 6) and presets (100+ vs 60+).
Source: Future Audio Workshop product page
When to use it
SubLab XL is a fast route to trap, hip-hop and EDM low end: sample layers for the attack and a synth layer for the sub, all in one plugin. It is more of a focused 808 tool than a general synth.
- Best for: 808s, sub-basses and kick-plus-sub layering.
- Genres: trap, hip-hop, drill, EDM, pop.
Where to buy
- Future Audio Workshop: $39 (regular $80)
- Plugin Boutique: $39 (regular $80)
Tutorials and reviews
- Analog Sub-Bass with SubLab XL (Future Audio Workshop)
- Kendrick Lamar's "N95" bass with SubLab XL (Future Audio Workshop)
- NEW Sublab XL By Future Audio Workshop Review And Demo
- Future Audio Workshop SubLab XL
- Sublab XL wants to get dirty with beginners
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