XILS-Lab goes beyond Roland’s RS-505 string machine the X-505 plugin synth

(Image credit: XILS-lab)

It seems that it’s not just Behringer that’s been studying the Roland back catalogue recently; French software developer XILS-lab has also been delving into the company’s synth archive, taking inspiration from the RS-505 string machine and coming up with the XILS X-505.

Something of an “analogue orchestra”, this is actually more than a string machine in that it can serve as a synth and bass synth as well. XILS has also added a Vintage Analog Human Choir Machine - an alternative oscillator source for the Synthesizer part - and exposed more parameters for the string machine.

There are multiple layering and tweaking possibilities, while effects include BBD Chorus, an analogue-style phaser and a vintage reverb.

RS-505 is available now for PC and Mac in VST/AU/AAX formats for the introductory price of €89 (regular price is €149). You can find out more and download a demo on the XILS-lab website.

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.