Summary

Primer is a free synthesizer VST plugin specifically designed for learning subtractive synthesis. It offers a clear interface and basic controls found on most analog synthesizers, allowing users to create a wide variety of patches and sounds. The plugin is available for Mac (VST and AU), Windows (VST), as well as an iPad app (Standalone and Audio Unit Extension).

Features

• 400 factory presets
• Three oscillators: two with controls for waveform, pitch, pulse width, and mix plus a sub-oscillator with waveform and volume control
• Waveforms: sawtooth, pulse, triangle, sine
• FM knob and noise oscillator
• Oscillator sync
• Filter types: low-, band-, and high-pass with resonance and key tracking
• ADSR filter envelope and amp envelope as well as an AD modulation envelope
• LFO with four waveforms, seven modulation targets, rate, amount, trigger options, and mono and poly modes
• Voice modes: mono, legato, poly
• Portamento, unison mode with adjustable voices, detune, and spread
• Ring modulation
• Effects: distortion, chorus, phaser, delay, reverb
• Control via mod wheel, pitch wheel, and velocity
• Visualizer for real-time view of envelopes, filter, and LFOs
• Two random patch generators (randomizers) for diverse sound ideas

Special Features

Primer is closely linked to the award-winning learning app Syntorial, enabling users to learn synthesis in a hands-on way and directly transfer their acquired knowledge into a DAW of their choice. The synth has been positively highlighted multiple times within the community and was featured as a part of a music production contest, emphasizing its versatility.

Target Audience

Primer is primarily aimed at beginners and learners who want to understand the basics of subtractive synthesis, but also at producers looking to integrate a clear yet powerful synthesizer into their productions.