Bastl Instruments Softpop SP2

Bastl Instruments has come up with a lot for the successor "SP2" of the Softpop synthesizer. The numerous toggle switches of the predecessor have given way to a stately 37 patch sockets, thus increasing the flexibility when tinkering with sounds and the voltages and signals are compatible with those of the Eurorack modular system. Bastl names the Eurorack module "Benjolin" developed by Rob Hordijk as the father in the spirit of the Softpop SP2, which is equally unique in terms of interaction and sound design. As an eye-catcher, the developers have placed an illuminated hemisphere for psychedelic inspiration on the control panel.

Of tones and processes

The sound of the Softpop SP2 is generated by an analog triangle core oscillator with square including PWM and triangle waveform. This can be processed with the resonant multimode filter (lowpass, bandpass, highpass) and pumped up again with the distortion (pop!). Thanks to the normalized signal path, the synthesizer sounds great even without patch cables plugged in. The audio input turns the instrument into a drastic tool for editing external sounds. Overall, the sonic focus is on experimental to chaotic sounds, those with a rather noisy character and real bass monsters. Envelopes, an LFO, crossfader, sample & hold and to a not insignificant extent the sequencer contribute to the modulation of the electronic sounds. The sequencer has also undergone some improvements and now stores a whopping 64 patterns. The patterns are eight steps long, include pitch, gates and slide commands, and can be chained together in any order in real time. What's more, the scales included in Softpop SP2 are sequencable! A real highlight are the live effects that relate in part to the sequencer, but also to the audio signal. These add ratcheting, arpeggios, noise sounds and other flashy changes at the touch of a button.