Predator-3

Name: Predator-3
Price: 130.68 USD
Author: Rob Papen

by Rob Papen · Synth · Analog-modeled and wavetable synth

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Predator-3 is the third version of Rob Papen's Predator synth, using analog-modeled sound code from BIT for analog and hybrid wavetable sounds.

It adds a redesigned interface, an improved arpeggiator, multi envelopes and an audio follower for side-chain control, with over 7,000 presets, for $149.

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

Keywords: analog-sounding, arpeggiator, analog, preset-driven, sidechain input, wavetable, subtractive, basses, heavy, modulation matrix, additive, advanced, classic, FM, hybrid, leads, plucks, punchy, sound design, tempo-synced.

What it does

Predator-3 is "the successor of a legendary synthesizer": the third version of Rob Papen's preset-heavy all-round synth. It keeps the familiar layout but adds a reworked interface and analog-modelled sound code taken from Rob Papen's BIT synth.

Oscillators: three oscillators with sub-oscillators, drawing on analog-modelled subtractive waveforms and additive spectrum waveforms, with waveform morphing, spread detuning and FM.
Filters: two analog-modelled filters with 38 filter types and several routing options, plus an extra resonant high-pass filter.
Envelopes and LFOs: a filter envelope and four general envelopes, plus two multi-envelopes with up to 15 stages and curve control (new in version 3); pitch and filter LFOs and four tempo-syncable LFOs.
Modulation matrix: 20 slots with bypass in advanced mode, and an XY surface whose movements can be recorded.
Arpeggiator: four linked 16-step arps (A to D) with several play modes and ratcheting, enhanced in version 3.
Audio follower: new in version 3, it turns an incoming signal into a side-chain modulation source, with threshold, boost and smooth controls.
Effects: three effect slots in series, choosing from 34 effect types.
Presets and GUI: over 7,000 presets, and a redesigned interface in three sizes (100%, 133% and 200%) with the main controls on one screen.

It also loads Scala .tun files for alternative tunings. A demo is available. A Rack Extension version (Predator-RE) is sold separately.

Source: Rob Papen product page

When to use it

Predator-3 is the better pick when you want a huge library of ready-to-use EDM and pop sounds with enough depth to tweak them. It is a direct rival to Sylenth1: both are preset-driven all-rounders, but Predator-3 adds multi-envelopes, four arps, an audio follower for side-chain movement and far more filter types. Compared with Serum 2, it has no visual wavetable editor, so it suits picking and adjusting presets more than drawing your own waves. Massive X goes further into modern, heavily modulated bass design, while Predator-3 stays more direct, with its key controls on one page. One reviewer noted its effects can only run in series.

Best for: EDM leads, basses, plucks and arps, especially when you want a huge preset library.
Genres: EDM, trance, pop and hip-hop.
Look elsewhere if: you want to design wavetables visually (Serum 2) or need especially warm analog filters (Diva).
Tip: record movements on the XY surface to add expressive modulation to a preset without opening the matrix.

What producers say

Reviewers rate Predator as a solid, good-value workhorse with strong presets and effects, though some find it dated next to newer synths.

Synth and Software called it "absolutely a fine synthesizer" with "only one or two turkeys" among the presets, but noted that the effects only run in series, presets are sorted by designer rather than sound type, and version 1.0 had a small pop after notes ended.
KVR users rate Predator 4.5 out of 5 from 8 reviews (covering earlier versions and the Rack Extension), praising the one-page layout, punchy sound and "some of the best built-in effects".
Criticisms: KVR users found the patch browser could be more intuitive and the filters less warm than Diva's.

Where to buy

Tutorials and reviews

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