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Further tweaking

As well as these sound-generating elements, there's also a section for applying up to three filters in series or parallel to each Source. In addition, there are 15 different filter modes, including the usual low-/high-/band-pass options, and less common ones like ring modulation and tube emulation.

The outputs of the four Sources can be combined in various ways using the Morph panel. This has nine different modes, the simplest of which, Xfade, mixes the output of the Sources together, with the X and Y axes controlling the balance between all four.

More intriguing still are the morphing modes – for example, select Morph and a single Source is heard at once, with the X and Y controls being used to change between the parameters of each generating module. So, if one Source is tuned down an octave, morphing between that and one that isn't will result in a smooth pitchbend rather than a crossfade between the two signals.

Other, far more specialised modes blend between more specific controls, such as the parameters of certain elements or envelope times. The X and Y values themselves can also be modulated, bringing to mind the vector synthesis instruments of the past.

Once all four Sources have been filtered and mixed/morphed, the signal is pumped through another pair of filters, which are even more comprehensive, with 50 different types on offer. For each of these, there's a knob that sets the balance between serial and parallel routing – a very nice touch.

You'll also find a comprehensive modulation panel; almost all of Alchemy's parameters can be modulated via the LFO, AHDSR envelope, multiple segment envelope generator (MSEG), sequencer, note property or performance parameter. A single LFO, AHDSR, MSEG or sequencer is available at first, but you can add more at will – up to 16, should you require them.

And there's more

In addition to Alchemy's Sources, filters and modulation panels, the synth also has Performance, Arpeggiator and Effects sections, which are accessed at the bottom of the interface.

The Performance screen offers eight knobs and two virtual XY pads. All of these work as additional modulation sources that can be applied to multiple parameters at once, just like the rest of the synth's mods.

You can store eight 'snapshots' of the Performance settings in the Remix pad and morph smoothly between them by dragging a cursor around the pad – it's very similar to the Sound Variations system used in Native Instruments' Kore.

The Arpeggiator panel sports its own step sequencer, with up to 128 steps, each of which has separate settings for value, length and swing. The output can then be applied to the arpeggiator's amplitude, pitch and panning knobs, and extra sequencers can be created as necessary.

Finally, the five-slot Effects section houses filter, EQ, distortion, delay, reverb, modulation, pan, gain and dynamic effects. Rather excitingly, their settings can be modulated too, making this section incredibly useful and well-integrated when it comes to sound design.

Summary

Alchemy's supplied preset library is good, although the quality is inconsistent. But to use it as a mere ROMpler would be ignoring the software's fantastically deep sound design capabilities.

You'll find a robust array of sampling and synthesis techniques that make Alchemy a compelling prospect for those eager to expand their creative arsenal, and it's the perfect partner for a more traditional sampler or synth.

Listen to Alchemy in action: