MINIMONSTA2

Name: MINIMONSTA2
Price: 119 USD
Author: GForce Software

by GForce Software · Synth · Minimoog Model D-style synth

Not rated yet

The second version of GForce's virtual analog synth modeled on the Moog Model D.

It adds a bass-preserving modern filter, X-Modifier modulation, polyphonic and unison modes, effects and 800+ presets, for $119.

Best for: Bass, Keys & Synths, Sound Design. Genres: Electronic & EDM, Hip-Hop & Trap, Rock & Indie, Pop.

Keywords: modern, basses, polyphonic, analog, hardware emulation, classic, macro controls, preset-driven, fat, vintage, 70s, leads, monophonic, sound design, subtle, subtractive, virtual analog.

What it does

MINIMONSTA2 models the Moog Model D and extends it with polyphony, a second filter type and per-parameter modulation. GForce aims for an "authentic experience designed for the modern setup".

Oscillators and mixer: three oscillators with pulse width modulation on VCO1, a noise generator and the feedback signal in the mixer.
Filter choice: the classic 24 dB/octave ladder filter, or a modern alternative that keeps the bass when resonance goes up.
Envelopes: selectable 3-stage (as on the original) or 4-stage envelopes.
X-Modifiers and macros: X-LFO and X-ADSR can modulate nearly any parameter, with four programmable macros, programmable aftertouch and expanded velocity control.
Voice modes: mono, poly, legato and unison, with pan spread.
Character and effects: a Vintage control for subtle analog imperfections, stereo delay and Matrix Reverb.
Presets: 800+ presets (300+ new, 500 tagged legacy patches) in a searchable browser.

The current version is 1.0.2. The free trial lasts 6 hours or 7 days, whichever is longer, with a subset of patches. Owners of the original Minimonsta get upgrade pricing.

Source: GForce Software product page

When to use it

MINIMONSTA2 is the Model D plugin to pick when you want the Mini's character plus modern extras. Compared with UA's Moog Minimoog it moves further from the original, adding polyphony, a bass-preserving second filter and modulation on almost every control, at a lower price. Against Arturia Mini V and Cherry Audio Miniverse it offers a similar classic voice, with GForce's X-Modifier and macro system as the main difference. Next to wide-ranging synths like Diva or Serum 2 it does one thing, fat Moog-style tones, in depth.

Best for: bass, mono leads and fat poly patches with Model D character.
Genres: electronic, hip-hop, funk, pop and rock.
Look elsewhere if: you want the officially Moog-licensed recreation (UA's Moog Minimoog) or a buzzier ARP tone (ODDITY3).
Tip: collapse the extended panel to get a layout close to the hardware when you want to work the classic way.

What producers say

Reviewers and buyers rate it highly, with few complaints.

Computer Music (via MusicRadar, 2023) called it "packed full of vintage and modern charm", praising the 16-voice polyphony, the modern filter and the new browser.
Sweetwater users rate it 5 out of 5 from 3 reviews; one hardware owner said "this plugin is the one to get".
Criticisms: none of substance; Computer Music's "against" column simply read "What's not to like?"

Where to buy

Best Service: $119
GForce Software: $119
Plugin Boutique: $119.99
PluginFox: $119.99
AudioDeluxe: $119.99

Tutorials and reviews

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