Strobe2
by ROLI · Synth · Single-oscillator analog-modelled polysynth
Not rated yet
Strobe2 is an analog-modelled polysynth, originally from FXpansion and now sold by ROLI, built around a Super Oscillator with hard sync, stacking and detuning.
It has 22 filter responses, the TransMod modulation system, a step sequencer and over 1,100 presets, and lists at $179 at Plugin Boutique.
Best for: Keys & Synths, Bass. Genres: Electronic & EDM, Pop.
Keywords: analog-sounding, analog, polyphonic, basses, sequencer, MPE support, preset-driven, leads, plucks, simple, 80s, arpeggiator, auto-gain, modulation matrix, randomize, resizable UI, subtractive.
What it does
Strobe2 is a single-oscillator, analog-modelled polysynth, first developed by FXpansion and now sold by ROLI. Its sound is based on 1980s synths, and Plugin Boutique sums it up as "realistic analogue modelling and deep but intuitive synthesis".
- Super Oscillator: one oscillator with several waveform faders, noise, phase reset, hard sync, stacking and detune, plus key-tracked tone controls.
- Sub-oscillators: they drift independently, and a Link option keeps them in phase so basses stay solid when unison is spread.
- Filter and VCA: 22 multimode filter responses with gain-compensated drive, followed by a saturating OTA-modelled VCA.
- Waveshaper: a wavefolder-style distortion with tone controls on the oscillator section.
- TransMod: click-and-drag modulation between parameters, with an LFO and sub-LFO (phase lock, symmetry and swing), envelopes, and Euclid and curve processors.
- Sequencing: an arpeggiator and an MPE-compatible step sequencer with 3 sub-sequencers and a control matrix.
- Effects and presets: a 6-slot rack with 25+ effects, and over 1,100 presets (900+ standard and 200 for MPE). You can morph between 8 quick presets or randomize, and the interface scales for 4K and Retina screens.
KVR lists version 2.6.1.7. ROLI Studio owners can upgrade at a reduced price.
When to use it
Strobe2 is the pick for classic analog basses, leads and plucks with a lot of movement on top. Compared with Diva it is simpler, with one oscillator instead of several and less focus on exact vintage circuits, and it adds 200 MPE presets. Compared with Hive 2 or Sylenth1 it has more modulation depth, including preset morphing, which BPB singled out as its standout feature. Compared with ROLI's own Cypher2 it is the plainer, more analog-sounding choice, without three-oscillator FM. KVR lists version 2.6.1.7, the same build number as Cypher2's last update from 2021.
- Best for: mono and poly basses, leads, plucks and patches that change from note to note.
- Genres: electronic, synth-pop and dance music.
- Look elsewhere if: you want multi-oscillator analog modelling (Diva) or FM and cross-modulation (Cypher2).
- Tip: turn on the sub-oscillator Link option to keep the low end firm when you spread unison (BPB).
What producers say
Reviewers liked its morphing and modulation depth more than its looks.
- Bedroom Producers Blog (Alexandra Sendy, 2016, as FXpansion Strobe2) rated it 92%, "Brilliant", praising the 8-patch morphing, the improved oscillators, the waveshaper, the flexible LFOs and TransMod, and filters that use less CPU than before.
- Criticisms: the same review heard morphing happen in "lots of tiny steps", found that switching filter or effect types causes jumps, called the GUI "plainer and greyer" than the original, and noted CPU strain on heavy patches.
Where to buy
- Plugin Boutique: $179
Tutorials and reviews
- FXpansion Strobe2 Tutorial - Overview
- FXpansion Strobe2 Tutorial - Strobe2 MPE & ROLI Seaboard
- FXpansion Strobe 2 Exclusive Overview
- Strobe2 Expander: Cinematic Synthesis & Seaboard Block
- FXPansion Strobe 2 Sounds so GOOD!!
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