In the world of MIDI controllers and synthesizers, the Expressive E Osmose stands out as a game-changer. With its innovative keybed design and powerful capabilities, it has the potential to transform the way musicians create and perform. Join me, content writer Alexandra Davenport, as I delve into the Osmose's features, performance, and overall impact in this comprehensive review.
The Revolutionary Keybed Design
Explore the unique keybed design of the Expressive E Osmose and its potential impact on musicians.
The keybed of the Expressive E Osmose sets it apart from other MIDI controllers and synthesizers. With its side-to-side key movement, it allows for bending notes and adding vibrato, mimicking the experience of playing a stringed instrument. This innovative design brings a new level of expressiveness to keyboard playing.
As a guitarist, I found the Osmose's keybed to be a natural fit for my playing style. The ability to bend notes and add subtle nuances to my performance added a level of fluidity and organic feel that is often missing from traditional synthesizers. It does require a bit of a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, the possibilities are endless.
The Approachable MPE Controller
Discover how the Expressive E Osmose combines the power of MPE with a traditional keyboard design.
Unlike other MPE controllers, the Osmose features a traditional keyboard layout with full-sized keys and a satisfying action. This makes it a perfect choice for pianists and accomplished keyboard players who want to explore the world of MPE. The seamless integration of MPE capabilities into a familiar form factor sets the Osmose apart from its competitors.
With the Osmose, you can experience the expressive possibilities of MPE without sacrificing the feel and playability of a traditional keyboard. Whether you're a seasoned pianist or a beginner, the Osmose offers a user-friendly and approachable MPE controller that will elevate your musical performances.
The Interface and Sound Design
Delve into the interface and sound design capabilities of the Expressive E Osmose.
The Osmose features a well-designed interface with a decently sized screen that provides easy access to various parameters and presets. While it may not have an extensive array of hands-on controls, the smart organization minimizes the need for excessive menu diving.
However, when it comes to sound design, the Osmose relies heavily on Haken Audio's EaganMatrix. This powerful engine is capable of creating a wide range of sounds, but it can be complex and overwhelming for those unfamiliar with its intricacies. Serious sound design requires the use of the Haken Editor, which may pose a challenge for some users.
Despite the learning curve, the Osmose offers a vast sonic palette, covering everything from virtual analog to physical modeling. While some presets may feel more like tech demos than usable sounds, the physical modeling patches truly shine, offering a level of expressiveness and realism that is unmatched.
The Osmose as a MIDI Controller
Discover the Osmose's capabilities as a MIDI controller for MPE-enabled soft synths.
Although the Osmose is a powerful synthesizer, I found myself primarily using it as a MIDI controller for MPE-enabled soft synths like Arturia's Pigments and Ableton's Drift. Its incredible arpeggiator and intuitive controls make it a joy to use in a studio setting.
However, as a standalone synthesizer, the Osmose has its limitations. The complex sound design process and the lack of extensive preset options may deter some users who prefer a more straightforward approach. Nevertheless, as a MIDI controller, the Osmose excels and offers unparalleled performance and versatility.