Xfer Records launches long-awaited Serum 2

Xfer Records has announced Serum 2, the long-awaited update to one of the most popular soft synths ever made.

A free update for existing Serum license holders, version two comes with a host of new additions, updated engines, a vast library of sounds and much more.

Originally launched in September 2014, Serum became a favourite with electronic music producers for its complex wavetable sounds and powerful modulation capabilities. Now version two adds to its legacy, with the main feature being a new Oscillator Section.

Alongside its famous Wavetable Engine, the new section allows for multi-samples, samples, granular oscillators, and spectral synthesis, further enhancing Serum’s sonic palette. The multi-sample oscillator is particularly interesting meaning you can create an oscillator from a range of samples where each sample is assigned to the relevant note on the keyboard. Sample oscillator does the same but one sample is stretched across the whole keyboard. 

Other features for version two include new analogue and digital wavetables, and new warp modes including phase distortion and high and low pass filters per oscillator. There are also two filters in Serum meaning you can run filters in series — or one into the other — or in parallel with each filter having its own dedicated output. Filters can be modulated separately, and you can even draw your own filter shape using the new PZSVF mode.

The arp in Serum 2 comes with a new pattern mode that essentially lets you draw in your own piano roll-style sequences. The update also adds another envelope, bringing the total amount to four. These are now also syncable to your project’s bpm.

Serum 2 also adds a whole new array of effects including the Bode frequency shifter, and a high-quality convolution reverb — this comes with a bunch of presets but also lets you import your own impulse responses.

As you can imagine, given the complexity and depth of the original, the new updates mentioned only scratch the surface. To get the full lowdown on what’s new in Serum 2 visit the Xfer Records website. Serum 2 is a free update for existing Serum owners and costs $189 for a limited time.