Summary

Evolve Velvet by Excite Audio is a sample-based synthesizer featuring a unique sound palette inspired by vintage keyboards, acoustic instruments, and warm lo-fi textures. It combines over 250 sound sources including felt pianos, electric keyboards, strings, and classic synths from the 1970s and 80s to create expressive, smooth tones suitable for various musical styles.

Key Features

• Four-layer quad-engine allowing blend of sampled instruments and synth oscillators
• XY pad for real-time morphing between layers and modulation
• Import own samples to create custom patches
• Extensive modulation system including envelopes, LFOs, velocity, keytracking, and modulation matrix
• Four velvet-inspired macro effects: Soften, Warmth, Sway, Haze
• Dual filters with multiple modes and flexible routing
• 16 high-quality effects modules in three rearrangeable slots (e.g., Saturation, Delay, Reverb, Compressor, Phaser)
• 250 presets covering various genres and instrument types

Sound Sources and Synthesis

The instrument sources include acoustic and electric keyboards, synth oscillators with adjustable waveform shapes, and user-imported samples. Each layer can be independently tuned, panned, and velocity-sensitive. Randomization features allow choosing sounds and parameters unpredictably for inspiration.

Modulation and Effects

Modulation sources offer rich sound-shaping options with visual feedback. The macro effects specifically tailored for Evolve Velvet add character and texture, from transient softening to lo-fi reverb. The dual filters can operate in series or parallel, and the FX slots provide extensive tonal shaping possibilities.

System Compatibility

Available for macOS (10.15+ Intel and Apple Silicon) and Windows (7+), supporting VST, VST3, AU, AAX plugins, and standalone operation. Compatible with major DAWs including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, Nuendo, Reaper, and Reason.