- Publisher: Native Instruments
- Product: Play Series : Modular Icons
- Release: HiDERA
- Version: 2.0.1
- Requirements: Kontakt v7.6 or higher
Imagine standing before a towering wall of synthesis – patch cables weaving intricate pathways, lights blinking in hypnotic rhythm, the air humming with raw analog power. For decades, these vintage modular synthesizers were the exclusive domain of pioneering artists and well-funded studios. They were the sonic laboratories where electronic music was born, instruments of immense power, complexity, and prohibitive rarity. Their sound – organic, evolving, and undeniably iconic – shaped genres and inspired generations.
What if you could harness that legendary sound, that creative spirit, directly within your own productions, right now?
As someone who’s watched the evolution of music software for over 15 years, I recognize watershed moments. Native Instruments Modular Icons is one of them. Created in direct collaboration with the esteemed Bob Moog Foundation, this instrument isn’t just an emulation; it’s a direct conduit to the authentic sounds of synthesizer history, meticulously captured and placed into an inspiring, intuitive interface. Part of the acclaimed Play Series, Modular Icons delivers the dream of owning a “wall of synths” without the astronomical cost, maintenance nightmares, or need for a degree in electrical engineering.
What Makes a Modular Icon? The Sound of History, Direct from the Source
The soul of Modular Icons lies in its unparalleled sound library, sourced not from simulations, but from the actual instruments and master artists who defined the modular era.
Sounds Crafted by Pioneers:
We collaborated with a roster of true musical innovators, artists whose work with modular synths left an indelible mark on music:
- Jean-Michel Jarre: The architect of massive electronic soundscapes.
- Steve Porcaro (Toto): Mastermind behind iconic synth hooks and textures.
- Mark Isham: Award-winning film composer and electronic music explorer.
- Michael Boddicker: Prolific session synthesist on countless hit records.
- Jeff Rona: Film/TV composer and modular synth advocate.
- Benge: Renowned electronic musician and vintage synth collector.
- And other influential figures who pushed the boundaries of sound.
From the World’s Rarest Machines:
These artists opened their studios, granting access to some of the most coveted and historically significant modular systems ever built:
- Keith Emerson’s Custom Moog Modular: The legendary, bespoke system wielded by the prog-rock titan.
- ARP 2500: A rare, matrix-based modular known for its unique sound and used in iconic film scores.
- Roland System 700: A Japanese modular masterpiece, revered for its powerful oscillators and filters.
- Buchla Modular Systems: Don Buchla’s visionary “West Coast” synthesis approach, known for its experimental textures.
- TONTO (The Original New Timbral Orchestra): The legendary, massive multi-system synth famously used by Stevie Wonder, often cited as the largest and most expensive modular synth in the world.
- Other rare vintage hardware that defines the golden age of synthesis.
Each sound within Modular Icons carries the genuine sonic fingerprint of these unique instruments and the artists who mastered them.
Beyond Static Samples: The Inspiring Play Series Engine
Modular Icons isn’t just a collection of historical recordings; it’s a living, breathing instrument designed for immediate creativity, thanks to the powerful and intuitive Play Series engine.
- Instant Inspiration: Dive straight in with over 100 expertly crafted presets. These aren’t just raw samples; they are carefully constructed patches covering basses, leads, pads, atmospheres, effects, and arpeggiated sequences, all imbued with authentic modular character and ready for your tracks.
- Real-Time Sound Sculpting: Don’t just play presets – perform them! Eight intuitively mapped macro controls give you instant access to the most vital parameters of each sound. Twist knobs to sweep filters, adjust envelopes, add effects, morph textures, and truly make these iconic sounds your own, all without complex menu diving.
- Evolving Analog Patterns: Unleash the generative power of modular synthesis with the built-in sequencer. It’s designed specifically to create complex, evolving, and often delightfully unpredictable analog-style patterns instantly, setting your creative wheels in motion and adding dynamic movement to your music.
- Focus on Creativity: The clean, straightforward Play Series interface ensures that technology never gets in the way of your musical ideas. It’s all about getting to great sounds fast and staying in the creative flow.
Honoring a Legacy: The Bob Moog Foundation Collaboration
Our partnership with the Bob Moog Foundation underscores our commitment to authenticity and respect for the history of electronic music. This collaboration ensures that Modular Icons not only captures the sounds but also honors the spirit of innovation and exploration embodied by Dr. Bob Moog and his contemporaries. A portion of the proceeds supports the Foundation’s vital work in education and the preservation of synthesizer history.
Who Is Modular Icons For?
This instrument is a must-have for:
- Music Producers (All Genres): Add authentic analog warmth, character, and unique textures to electronic music, pop, hip-hop, rock, and more.
- Film & Game Composers: Access evocative, evolving soundscapes and powerful signature sounds perfect for scoring.
- Sound Designers: Explore a rich palette of raw analog tones and generative sequences for unique sonic creations.
- Synth Enthusiasts & History Buffs: Own and interact with the sounds of legendary instruments you’ve only dreamed of hearing.
- Anyone Seeking Inspiration: Break creative blocks with instantly usable sounds and patterns that spark new ideas.
Why Modular Icons? The Benefits:
- Unrivaled Authenticity: Play sounds sourced directly from legendary artists and the world’s rarest modular synths (Moog, ARP, Roland, Buchla, TONTO, etc.).
- Instant Gratification: Start creating immediately with 100+ diverse, production-ready presets.
- Intuitive Control: Easily sculpt and perform sounds in real-time using powerful macro knobs.
- Effortless Generation: Create complex, evolving analog patterns with the integrated sequencer.
- Streamlined Workflow: Stay focused on music with the clean and efficient Play Series interface.
- Historical Significance: Own a piece of synth history, curated in collaboration with the Bob Moog Foundation.
Stop Dreaming About Vintage Modular. Start Creating With It.
The mythical sounds of modular synthesis are no longer out of reach. Native Instruments Modular Icons puts the power, character, and inspiration of electronic music’s golden age directly into your hands. Infuse your tracks with genuine analog heritage and explore the sounds that shaped the future.
Discover the legends. Download Native Instruments Modular Icons today.