MusicRadar

KX77FREE KX-Synth 2.0

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

An updated version of the synth that's based on the classic EMS VCS3. We're in modular territory here, and version 2.0 adds six voices of polyphony, the KXMOD system for phat vintage leads and a CV and gate sequencer. These are the highlights, though several other tweaks have been made, too.

Agares Media Agares RackA3 Effect Suite

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

Designed as "the basic effects toolkit that every musician needs", this six-strong bundle may not break the mould but it certainly covers plenty of useful bases. Plug-ins include triple delay, distortion, flanger, pitch shifter, reverb and chorus – if your current processors aren't cutting it, give 'em a try.

The Lower Rhythm Blister

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

The developer reckons that Blister is a kind of nuclear option that should be used "when all other attempts at making something sound horrible have failed". It features tube-style gain, bit crushing and a synth that detects your signal frequency, and promises to "barf out a slew of noisy, atonal junk". Sounds wonderful to us.