MidlifeSynthesist Drops A Synth Bombshell With IONA

New Kid on the Block

So, what’s the deal with this new IONA plugin? Well, MidlifeSynthesist dives into the juicy details right at the start. Early birds got a sneak peek thanks to a serial code from Akai, though no money changed hands in the making of this review. IONA is billed as a faithful digital reincarnation of the legendary Roland SH-101 synthesizer, and MidlifeSynthesist isn’t holding back when he says it might be the best-sounding synth for the MPC since Jura.

A Classic with a Twist

If you’re thinking, ‘Why another SH-101 clone?’ MidlifeSynthesist has your answer. Yeah, staying true to the original, it’s monophonic, it’s got style, and it’s not crazy expensive—just like back in the day. But here’s what’s new: the modulator section now rocks nine wave shapes rather than the measly four of yore, plus a sync button is thrown in for good measure. That’s like upgrading from a razor flip phone to a smartphone, folks. The sound source panel is glamorously loaded with a square, a sawtooth, and a sub-oscillator that’s ready to shake any dancefloor.

"I cannot believe that what we're hearing is from an MPC."

Diving into Sound Features

MidlifeSynthesist takes a journey through the panel sections, and this ride is smoother than silk. We’re talking pitch range options that are just a love letter to the 101, including the same mod slider, pitch range, and pulse width modulation options. The sound source panel doesn’t disappoint with its pulse-shaking precision. Mix it up for max-thick sound, because, why not? When you got gears like this, you better flaunt them.

The Filter Fiasco

"most of the character of any synth really comes to life."

Now, let’s talk filters, shall we? MidlifeSynthesist points out where IONA really lets its character shine – through its low-pass resonant filter. It’s got that squelch factor you’ll adore, and it’s a bit like finding great street food in a metropolis – it’s all about the flavor journey. Working that squelch on continuing sequences is where the magic happens, with all the og vibes still resonating. You’re also going to love how the filter modulation options come back to life with the envelope, LFO, and keyboard tracking. All these take IONA from good to holy-synth-heaven!

Sequencers and Showstoppers

The back half of the IONA introduces you to the souped-up sequencer and effects section. It’s like this thing was built to party. The sequencer got a serious facelift; you now get 128 steps instead of the old-school 100, and don’t even get me started on the independent clock speed. You also have visual step markers which make laying down those complex beats as easy as pie—a nice one at that. Get those rhythms poppin’ with ties, rests, legato, and a shiny arpeggiator for good measure.

Wrap-up: A Worthy Addition

MidlifeSynthesist wraps up with some takeaways. IONA adds a fresh groove to the already bustling MPC world. Its intuitive use and killer sound got him, though there’s a hankering for even more voices in a future polyphonic update. The new integrated effects are noteworthy, adding lo-fi delay, reverb, and 3-band EQ to the fun, literally beefing up your tracks in no time. Whether you’re a beatmaker newb or a seasoned knob-twiddler, this could be your next go-to plugin.