The Oscillator is the heart of Omnisphere’s vast synthesis capabilities. It has a “split-personality” since each of the 4 Layers’ Oscillators can have either high-definition, streaming sample-playback or dynamic, real-time, DSP-generated wavetables. The Oscillators’ extensive synthesis capabilities vary depending on whether SAMPLE mode or SYNTH mode is selected.
SAMPLE MODE
- Omnisphere’s massive Core Soundsources library comprises approximately 60 GB of sample-based sounds, called Soundsources, to use as sources for synthesis. These Soundsources cover a wide spectrum of sounds, from simple raw waveforms and psychoacoustic samples, to morphing textures, warm voices and choirs, vintage keyboards, analog synths, and a best-of selection from our award-winning sample libraries. User Audio can be imported and used as Soundsources as well.
SYNTH MODE
- When the Oscillator is in SYNTH Mode, Omnisphere uses DSP wavetables generated in real-time by the STEAM engine. There are over 500 Wavetables available, ranging from classic vintage synthesizer waveforms to aggressive digital waveshapes. Using these in combination with the three main synth Oscillator Parameters (SHAPE, SYMMETRY and HARD SYNC) offers vast sonic possibilities.
The combination of both types of sound generation makes Omnisphere a true hybrid instrument, which is able to transform both sample and DSP-based sounds using a wide range of synthesis methods.
The STEAM engine goes far beyond traditional synthesizers by including a set of dedicated oscillators for Hard Sync, Frequency Modulation, Ring Modulation, Frequency Shifting, Unison, Harmonia, and Granular Synthesis controls.
SAMPLE / SYNTH MODE MENU
Select the Oscillator mode by clicking the downward triangle and choosing from the pop-up. This will determine whether the Layer can load a Soundsource (SAMPLE) or will utilize a DSP Wavetable (SYNTH).
OSCILLATOR PAGES
Each of the Oscillator Sub-pages contains a wide set of synthesis functions that can be applied to the Oscillator. They can be accessed by clicking on the Oscillator buttons below the Wavetable/Soundsource image. The LED lines on the bottom of each button double as Power switches/activity indicators for those pages.
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