JMG Sound have launched a new packed-down version of Cyberdrive, their recently released distortion plug-in. Available through United Plugins, Cyberdrive Core contains the same 64 distortion models as its larger sibling, but with a simpler set of controls and a more straightforward signal path.
The plug-in’s 64 distortion models are organised into the following categories:
- Classic: Models of tube, tape, transistor and diode-based circuits.
- Modern: Contains complex multiband distortion, folding and companders.
- Pixel: Various forms of bit-crushing, rate reduction, digital degradation, noise and glitches.
- Shape: Wave-shapers of various types, including rectify, foldback, asymmetric clipping.
- Amp: Models of famous guitar and bass amplifiers.
- Pedal: Emulations of popular guitar pedals.
- Doom:Extremely heavy custom distortion sounds.
- Freak: Contains experimental techniques such as ring-modulation, feedback, FM and spectral distortion.
While Cyberdrive is a complex beast that allows users to combine up to three distortions, experiment with different routing configurations and take advantage of a built-in feedback module and additional effects, Core offers a much simpler approach. Users are able to load one of the included distortion modes at a time, before fine-tuning the effect using the plug-in’s Mix, Drive and Control parameters. High and low-pass filters are present, and there’s an automatic gain compensation function that ensures the output and input levels remain consistent.
SOS Review
We put full version of Cyberdrive to the test in SOS December 2024, click here to take a look at the full review (print / web / app / replica / PDF editions). /reviews/jmc-cyberdrive
Compatibility
Cyberdrive Core is supported on PCs running Windows 8 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.10 or higher. VST, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Cyberdrive Core is available now, and is being offered at an introductory price of $9£7 / €9 until 31 March 2025, when it will increase to its full cost of $41£32 / €39. GBP prices include VAT. An upgrade path to the full version of Cyberdrive is provided, and those who already own Cyberdrive will be able to access the new Core variant for free.
