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1. First Look: The U-he Ace Modular Synthesizer For Mac Pro

Any Cable Everywhere ACE belongs to a new generation of synthesizers developed with the latest, fastest computers in mind. ACE offers classic modular synthesis and more at a fraction of the cost of dedicated hardware.

But like its hardware forebears, you can patch any output into any input: the number of different ways to connect modules together is practically infinite. Needless to say, you will never run out of cables! The careful selection of modules and clear layout make ACE the ideal instrument for newcomers delving into the fascinating world of modular synthesis. But ACE also delivers the goods: like any medium-sized professional hardware system, ACE has enough synthesis power to keep you discovering new tricks for many years to come!

Key Features At first glance ACE may seem overly simplistic, but remember that virtually anything can be plugged into anything else. For instance, try plugging an LFO into a Filter, then use that filter as an FM source for an oscillator. Crazy routing is possible, endless fun is guaranteed!. semi-modular architecture, with default routing like ARP 2600. 25 signal sources, 30+ signal targets. up to 8 times unison with +/-2 octave detune range each.

exceptional filters, can self-oscillate. LFOs can be used as VCOs and vice versa. sync, FM, cross modulation.

use multiples for inversion, amp / ring modulation etc. custom LFO waveform 'tap map'. microtuning (Scala.tun standard). 100% free of Supersaws!.

2 x LFO (0Hz - 20kHz). 2 x ADSSR envelopes. 2 x VCO (0Hz - 20kHz, PWM, VCO1-linked sub). 2 x VCF (LP1/LP2/LP3/LP4 and HP/BP/BR each). 2 x VCA with pan.

2 x multiples (with modulation input). 1 x mixer (for standard sources + aux). 1 x ramp generator (loopable). 1 x mapping generator (up to 128 values). 1 x noise (white, pink).

3 x global effects (chorus, delay, 2 x tone) Please take a look at 'More Infos' for a free Demo of ACE!

U-he ACE (Any Cable Everywhere) The modules of ACE are pretty standard, including a set of the most things like oscs, envelopes, filters, lfos, etc. You get 25 signal sources and over 30 signal targets, which is plenty to patch around but it might look a bit simple, compared to something like,. So ACE isn’t trying to be some kind of ultimate modular synth, that’s clear. What it does seem to do is produce some of the fattest sound I’ve ever heard from a virtual synth plug-in. I don’t know what Urs Heckmann did to get this amazing quality but it is absolutely stunning.

Deep basses, thick pads, glitchy percussion, classic lead sounds ACE does them all. Note: ACE can be quite CPU hungry, especially on high quality settings. You.can. set change quality to draft, standard or good to save CPU but it does change the sound quality quite dramatically in some cases. Just compare preset “BT punchy chicago” in draft and accurate modes. It saves about a third of CPU usage on my machine, but you will really want to have the sound you hear at the accurate setting, trust me.

Sounds amazing. It’s not just the sound that is so compelling, the programming of the synth itself is lots of fun too. Dragging cables around is a very nice way to experiment and learn how (modular) synthesis works. ACE also has a few tricks up its sleeve like self oscillating filters, a mapping generator which lets you create variable values for notes (can also be using as an LFO waveform), FM modulation/cross-modulation, some crazy circuit bending parameters, and more. Anyway, to cut to the chase — so I can play with ACE some more, this synth is superb. I can’t remember the last time I got so excited about a synth plug-in (yes I do, it was Loomer’s Aspect). So what do I think?

ACE is fantastic. I consider myself one of the early adopters, as i snapped it up in the final beta, but with U-he synths how can that be a bad idea?

U-he offers superb personal support and Urs Heckman is an extremely kind responsive individual. I haven’t had this much fun with a software modular since Arturia’s collection. The interface is super-clean and intuitive. The manual is clear concise and offers hidden tips to squeeze the sweetest juice out of ACE. You can get oscillations from driving the filter, using partial settings on the LFOs. The mod mapper.

I got a hold of CFA Sound’s CableDance now. It is Fantastic. It really brings out the best qualities of ACE as far as its thick warm sound. The Basses and Synths are just great and very nearly fit directly into any electronica mix. One bad point is that there are absolutely no performance options. Not so much as one single MW assignment even, however that being said, the sounds live on their own with good harmonics/attacks and bodies being thoughtfully tied to velocity settings instead.

First Look: The U-he Ace Modular Synthesizer For Mac Pro

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