Described as a "powerful synthesizer and sound platform built for endless hours of inspiration", Minimal Audio’s Current is clearly intended to offer more than your average soft synth. Its first major version update has just been announced, and introduces an array of new features as well as some upgrades and improvements to its existing feature set.
We put the original version of Current through its paces in the May 2024 issue of SOS, so if you’re not familiar with the instrument, it’s worth taking a look at our review here. With the release of Current 2.0, Minimal Audio have added a new Play View that allows users to interact with the instrument’s presets using a dual X-Y pad interface, while an expanded factory library offers over 400 presets based on more than 170 tables and over 800 samples.
A new Mixer panel offers functions such as sound source soloing and direct output routing, with more advanced modulation provided by a new pop-up Modulation Matrix section. There’s also a new effect in the form of Wave Shifter, which combines frequency shifting and ring modulation with controls typically found in an oscillator (such as FM and soft sync), and a new wavetable spectrum display that provides real-time visual feedback on Current’s spectral effects. Finally, a Stream Pack View makes it possible to browse expansion packs directly from the instrument.
As well as the all-new additions, Minimal Audio have implemented some significant updates and enhancements to Current’s existing features and functions, including:
- Updated UI focuses on user experience and accessibility.
- Updated modulation system now supports unlimited modulator connections.
- Browse and load content using the arrow keys.
- Stream search results can now be sorted by newest, alphabetically or shuffled.
- Faster loading times for presets and when instantiating the plug-in.
- Up to 32-voice polyphony is now supported.
- Plus many other features, enhancements, optimisations and fixes.
Compatibility
Current 2.0 is supported on PCs running Windows 10 and above, and Macs running macOS 10.9 or higher. VST2, VST3, AU and AAX plug-in versions are available.
Pricing & Availability
Current 2.0 is available now, and will be available at a discounted price of $99 (usually $199) for a limited time following its launch (23 October 2024). Existing Current owners are eligible for a free upgrade.
