Aly James Lab SY-4X: Four Syncussions in one Plugin
4,7 / 5,0 | 
Aly James Lab SY-4X brings the mighty Pearl Syncussion SY-1 to your DAW. But the developer didn’t stop at a meticulous emulation of the original’s oscillators and filters. Not only does SY-4X offer four SY-1 modules in a single plugin – it also comes with many new features and algorithms for even more sonic variety.
Aly James Lab SY-4X
The Pearl Syncussion SY-1 percussion synthesizer has long been a favorite of electronic music producers. With the new SY-4X plugin from Aly James Lab, you can now enjoy authentic Syncussion action in the comfort of your DAW – and then some!
SY-4X starts with an emulation of the SY-1’s unique oscillator and filter circuits. The developer has even included a CMOS parameter to simulate the slight waveform deviations of the original, recreating the unique overtone structures that add to the unmistakable sound of the Syncussion. In addition to the six oscillator configurations of the original, SY-4X includes two additional algorithms for cross/ring modulation and oscillator sync.
The unusual filter behavior and envelope response have also been carefully modeled to deliver an authentic Syncussion experience. Moreover, Aly James Lab has added a hold parameter to envelope 2, which allows you to create more sustained sounds with an almost gate-like response.
But the developer didn’t stop there. SY-4X includes no less than four Syncussion modules in one plugin, which gives you a total of eight channels to play with. Some modules feature additional modifications like noise direct injection. With four Syncussions at your fingertips, you can create anything from an 8-voice drum kit to four mono synths to a four-voice polyphonic synth. Modes can also be mixed to create a custom Syncussion setup.
Everything is MIDI-controllable, including a neat Trigger-to-Mode feature that switches between modes with every new trigger. With drum kit and keyboard modes, adjustable pitch tracking, and a host of other options, this could be the most versatile emulation of the mighty Syncussion we’ve ever seen.
Lastly, Aly James Lab SY-4X offers two “Berzerk” modes for an even more aggressive sound. One of them adds an asymmetrical clipping stage before the filter, while the other offers a post-filter crusher stage.
Price and compatibility
Aly James Lab SY-4X is available from the developer’s website for €51. The plugin runs on macOS 10.14 or higher (Intel and Apple Silicon) and Windows 10 or higher in VST3 and AU formats.
Don’t care for software? Behringer’s analog recreation of the Pearl Syncussion is available at Thomann*.
More information about SY-4X
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