For producers, composers, and sound designers alike, a powerful virtual synthesizer is indispensable. Enter Omnisphere 2 VST—a groundbreaking tool in the realm of music production.
Known for its innovation and versatility, Omnisphere 2.0 by Spectrasonics continues to redefine what’s possible in virtual synthesis.
This latest iteration pushes the boundaries of sound design, offering a wealth of features that promise to elevate your musical creations.
Is Omnisphere still worth your investment this year?
Let’s take a closer look.
Key Takeaways
- Omnisphere 2.8 lets you do new types of sound design like cutting up audio and wavetable synths.
- It has a very good performance for making sounds together or changing sounds.
- Omnisphere has a huge preset library and lets you use your own audio.
- You don’t need Omnisphere to be good. Focus on your songs and picking sounds.
- The release date for Omniphere 3 has not been announced as of June 2024
New Synthesis Possibilities:
One standout feature of Omnisphere 2.8 is its ability to import your own audio content. This grants you unparalleled freedom in sound creation.
Transform your samples into otherworldly soundscapes using the new Granular Synthesis algorithm.
Even if you wish to convert a smooth Jazz recording into an ethereal soundscape or shape it into a blazing synth lead, the possibilities are truly limitless.
But Omnisphere VSTi doesn’t stop there.
It offers more than 400 DSP waveforms for the synth oscillator, a hundredfold increase compared to its predecessor.
Each waveform acts as a Morphing Wavetable, unlocking a realm of sonic exploration.
It features up to 10 oscillators per patch, each capable of using its own wavetable. The depth and complexity of your sound designing endeavors know no bounds.
Prepare to be captivated by the richness and diversity of the sounds you can create.
Outstanding Performance Metrics
Omnisphere 2.8 delivers exceptional performance across various categories. Its new analog drift behavior enhances Unison, providing an extraordinary sense of depth and size to your sounds.
Check out the depths of FM and Ring Modulation, now capable of achieving unprecedented levels of complexity.
These quantitative measurements highlight the meticulous attention to detail that Spectrasonics has poured into Omnisphere 2.8.
By doing this, they ensured a seamless and immersive user experience.
What Sets Omnisphere 2 Apart?
Omnisphere VST stands head and shoulders above its competitors for several reasons.
Firstly, its vast library of over 10,000 meticulously crafted sounds offers an immense palette of musical possibilities.
Whether you seek lush pads, thunderous basslines, or ethereal atmospheres, Omnisphere 2 has you covered.
Secondly, the ability to import your audio content as sound sources further distinguishes Omnisphere 2.0.
By incorporating your sample library, you can infuse your productions with a unique touch, setting yourself apart from the crowd.
When Is Omnisphere 3 Coming Out?
As of June 2024, the official date of release for Omnisphere 3 VST has not been announced by Spectrasonics. Spectrasonics has released some Sonic Extensions to add to Omnisphere 2.8.
While the Omnisphere 3 release date remains unknown, users can still enjoy the features and enhancements introduced in the latest version, Omnisphere 2.8.
This update includes a greatly enhanced arpeggiator, a new preset library, new strumming modifiers, chord voicings, pitch slides, and step dividers.
You can also enjoy the ability to capture and analyze MIDI files.
If you are considering purchasing Omnisphere 2, keep in mind that some users have reported issues with the software in the past. This is due to incompatible hardware and configuration of the plugin.
Issues such as slow loading times for certain extensions and authorization problems.
Even though the Spectrasonics Omnisphere 3 release date hasn’t been announced, we are hopeful that common issues will be addressed.
However, many users find the software to be worth the investment, as it offers a unique and powerful tool for creating melodies and sounds
See Also: Problems With Ableton Live? 6 Common Issues (Solved)
Do You Need Omnisphere To Be A Good Producer?
No, You don’t need an expensive VST like Omnisphere to be a good producer. It will not automatically make your beats better. It’s important to focus on composition and sound selection first.
If you are looking for a versatile VST synth with a large library of presets and high sound quality, Omnisphere may be a good choice.
With that said, if you are on a tight budget or prefer other VST synths, you may not need Omnisphere VSTi to be a good producer.
With its intuitive interface and extensive sound design capabilities, Omnisphere VST has become a staple tool for both professional and aspiring producers.
See Also: Do I Need To Learn Piano For Music Production? (6 Things To Consider)
Do Professionals Use Omnisphere?
Yes, a lot of professionals use Omnisphere as their preferred VST of choice. Omnisphere VST has become a staple tool for both professional and aspiring producers.
Omnisphere VST offers a wide range of capabilities that cater to the needs of professional producers.
Its got an extensive sound library, comprising both traditional and unconventional sounds.
This allows professionals to explore new sonic territories and add depth to their compositions.
We’ve also noticed that professionals appreciate the seamless integration of Omnisphere VST with various DAWs.
Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2
It’s compatible with popular software such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase Pro, and FL Studio, ensuring a smooth workflow for professionals working in different environments.
Check Out: Ableton Live vs Cubase: Which DAW is Best for Music Production?
This advanced plugin goes even further and offers advanced synthesis options, modulation possibilities, and effects processing tools.
This allows professionals to craft intricate and polished sounds that stand out in the industry.
The ability to create unique soundscapes and textures with Omnisphere VST gives professionals a competitive edge and contributes to the overall quality of their productions.
Will Omnisphere Work With My Hardware?
Omnisphere integrates great with almost all the big-name hardware. It can connect to more than 65 popular synthesizer keyboards and let you control it like a real instrument.
This is really cool because it feels like you’re using a physical keyboard instead of just a computer program.
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3
It makes Omnisphere easier to use and gives you more control.
People who already have a synthesizer keyboard can use it to do even more with Omnisphere.
Official Omnisphere List Of Supported Hardware:
What Are Some Alternatives To Omnisphere VST?
Here are some alternative Omnisphere VST synths:
Xfer Serum
A powerful wavetable synthesizer known for its crystal-clear sound and intuitive interface. Serum offers extensive modulation options, allowing users to create complex, evolving sounds with ease.
Its visual feedback and drag-and-drop functionality make it a favorite among both beginners and advanced sound designers.
Native Instruments Massive
A versatile wavetable synthesizer that has been a staple in electronic music production for years.
Massive features a unique routing system that allows for intricate sound design and modulation.
Its distinctive sound has been prominently featured in numerous genres, particularly in dubstep and EDM.
u-He’s Hive 2
A synthesizer that combines the warmth of analog-style sound with modern digital precision.
Hive 2 is designed for efficiency, with a CPU-friendly engine that allows for complex patches without overtaxing your system.
Its intuitive interface and clever preset management system make it accessible for beginners while offering depth for experienced users.
u-He’s Zebra
A modular synthesizer that offers unparalleled flexibility in sound design. Zebra’s unique interface allows users to create complex patches by combining various modules in creative ways.
Its adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of sounds, from atmospheric pads to percussive effects and beyond.
Arturia’s V Collection
An awesome suite of virtual instruments that meticulously recreates classic synthesizers and keyboards.
The V Collection offers a vast array of vintage sounds, from iconic analog synths to rare electronic instruments.
Its attention to detail in emulating the quirks and characteristics of original hardware makes it a go-to choice for producers seeking authentic retro sounds.
U-He Diva
A virtual analog synthesizer that stands out for its rich, warm sound quality. Diva uses advanced modeling techniques to recreate the behavior of analog circuits, resulting in a remarkably authentic analog sound.
Its various oscillator and filter models allow users to mix and match components from different classic synths, creating unique hybrid instruments.
ReFX Nexus 4
A ROM synthesizer/sampler known for its extensive library of high-quality, ready-to-use sounds.
Nexus 4 is designed for quick results, offering a vast array of professionally crafted presets across various genres.
While it may not offer the same level of deep sound design as some other synths, its ease of use and polished sound make it a popular choice for producers looking for instant inspiration.
There are many other VST synths available, but these are some of the most popular and highly recommended alternatives to Omnisphere.
In the end, the best VST synth for you depends on your personal preferences and needs.
Let’s check out some pricing:
| Feature | Omnisphere | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | Serum ($199), Sylenth1 ($159), Massive ($149), Diva ($249), Hive 2 ($199), Zebra 2 ($249) |
| System requirements | Windows 7 SP1 or later, macOS 11.0 or later, 2.4 GHz Dual Core Processor or higher, 8GB RAM minimum, 64GB free drive space | Most alternatives have similar system requirements, but some may be less resource-intensive |
| Sound library | Over 14,000 presets | Most alternatives have smaller sound libraries, but they all offer a wide range of high-quality sounds |
| Synthesis capabilities | Four-layer multitimbral synth engine with over 500 wavetables, 128 oscillators, 256 filters, and 256 envelopes | Most alternatives offer similar synthesis capabilities, but some may have more or less features depending on the price |
| Effects | Over 100 built-in effects | Most alternatives offer a variety of built-in effects, but some may have more or less features depending on the price |
| Other features | Arpeggiator, step sequencer, chord generator, and patch browser | Most alternatives offer similar features, but some may have more or less features depending on the price |
Pros and Cons of Omnisphere VST
Pros:
- Massive variety of new synthesis options
- Extensive library of over 10,000 meticulously crafted sounds
- Granular Synthesis for transforming audio content into unimaginable soundscapes
- Over 400 DSP waveforms as Morphing Wavetables for limitless sonic exploration
- Improved Unison and enhanced FM and Ring Modulation capabilities
- Audio import feature
- More effects and effect slots
Cons:
- A steeper learning curve due to the depth of features and options
- Requires a powerful computer system to fully use its capabilities
- Basic sample handling capability
- A bit expensive
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Over 80GB of unique samples | High price tag |
| Huge array of analog & digital wavetables | Slow loading times for certain extensions |
| An awesome suite of 50+ professional-grade FX | Authorization problems reported by some users |
| Almost endless amount of sound design capabilities | |
| Pristine sound quality |
Sonic Extensions in Omnisphere 2
Each Sonic Extension is carefully curated to offer a unique sonic experience, tailored to specific musical genres and styles.
Let’s take a closer look at the four captivating Sonic Extensions that will revolutionize your creative process.
- Undercurrent – Delve into the depths of dark electronic scoring with Undercurrent. This extension delivers an array of haunting sounds and textures, perfect for adding an eerie atmosphere to your compositions.
- Nylon Sky – Experience the mesmerizing beauty of ambient acoustic guitar with Nylon Sky. Immerse yourself in a realm of gentle strums, intricate melodies, and atmospheric layers that will transport your listeners to ethereal landscapes.
- Unclean Machine – Embrace the nostalgia of retro sounds with Unclean Machine. This extension pays homage to vintage synthesizers, delivering gritty, analog-inspired tones that will infuse your music with a touch of warmth and character.
- Seismic Shock – Prepare for sonic destruction with Seismic Shock. Designed for heavy, modern electronica, this extension unleashes earth-shattering basslines and aggressive leads. It also features thunderous percussions that will make your tracks stand out in any mix.
The Sonic Extensions for Omnisphere are mostly what drives the synth’s longevity. This is because producers get new ideas when the original presets run out or get outdated.
So, is Omnisphere still worth it?
With just the vast amount of presets and capabilities, the answer is a resounding yes.
The Power of multisampled Sounds and Exclusive Effects
Each Sonic Extension comes equipped with an extensive collection of multi-sampled sounds.
These meticulously recorded and crafted samples provide an unparalleled level of detail and realism, ensuring that your compositions sound authentic and vibrant.
On top of this, Spectrasonics has included two exclusive effects with each Sonic Extension.
These effects can not only be applied to the included sounds but also to all your existing Omnisphere content.
The ability to use these effects across multiple Spectrasonics instruments such as Keyscape and Trilian expands your choices.
This also adds a new dimension to your music production workflow.
Is Serum VST Better Than Omnisphere?
If you’re looking for a vast library of sounds then Omnisphere is the better choice. Serum VST is a great option if you want to get into Sound Design and want a clean, user-friendly interface.
These days, with the sheer number of plugin stores available, selecting the right ones for your DAW can be quite a challenge. For beginners, it can feel like an impossible task.
Omnisphere and Serum emerged as the darlings of the plugin world. This has sparked massive debates within the producer community.
Many established producers swear by these two plugins and often mention them as their go-to choices in interviews.
As a result, both Omnisphere and Serum have become highly sought-after gems.
Based on thorough research and personal experience with both plugins—Omnisphere takes the crown because of its diverse sound library.
The versatility of its sounds makes it an excellent choice for various genres. What sets Omnisphere apart is its unique feature that integrates with hardware synths
This makes it a superior plugin compared to others in the market.
On the other hand, if you’re primarily into Sound Design, our recommendation would be Serum. When it comes to ease of use, Serum stands out from the crowd.
As a seasoned sound designer, I’ve explored numerous plugins, but Serum remains unrivaled in terms of user-friendliness.
It offers an array of features that make it the ultimate tool for sound design. The visually appealing interface makes working with Serum a breeze.
On top of this, for those who prefer not to design their own sounds, Serum is also great.
It also provides a library of top-notch presets that can be easily manipulated to create remarkable music.
Conclusion – Is Omnisphere Still Worth it?
The best way to determine which plugin suits your needs is to experiment with demos or trial versions. That way allows you to experience firsthand how each plugin aligns with your creative vision.
In the end, your choice between Serum VST and Omnisphere should be based on your personal preferences and musical style.
In the end, you’ll need to think about the specific sonic landscapes you wish to explore in your productions.
FAQ’s
Is Omnisphere outdated?
No, regular updates keep it modern.
What VST is better than Omnisphere?
None, it’s one of the best but other synths like Serum are also great.
Is Omnisphere the best plugin?
It’s one of the top plugins for pros but not everyone needs its features.
Is 16 GB RAM enough for Omnisphere?
16GB should work for basic uses but 32GB is recommended for heavier projects.
Should I buy Omnisphere or Serum?
Both are great, choose based on your style – Omnisphere has more sounds, and Serum VST is better for designing your own.
What makes Omnisphere so good?
Huge sound library, powerful synthesis, and the ability to import audio for unlimited customization. It inspires creativity.
Mike is a skilled musician, guitar technician, and music producer with a passion for audio and gear. He excels in teaching guitar, editing podcasts/videos, and creating captivating soundscapes using cutting-edge hardware, software, and plugins. Mike’s talent and commitment make him highly sought-after in the industry, inspiring fellow musicians worldwide.