What is the Cherry Audio Lowdown Bass Synth?

It is a monophonic virtual instrument designed to accurately emulate a classic 1970s bass pedal synthesizer. It focuses on delivering powerful, floor-shaking bass tones using component-level modelling.

Who developed the Lowdown?

The plugin was developed by Cherry Audio in collaboration with Mark Barton, also known as MRB. Together they used proprietary analysis to ensure the digital recreation matches the original hardware's response.

Which bands are associated with this sound?

The original hardware sound emulated by the Lowdown was used prominently by progressive rock bands like Rush and Yes. It was also a staple for pop-oriented groups such as Genesis and The Police.

What is unique about the oscillators in the Lowdown?

The Lowdown features a dual oscillator design with Hz/Oct scaling. This allows for a 'constant-beat' relationship between the two oscillators, resulting in a very thick and stable bass character.

What kind of filter does the Lowdown use?

It utilizes a girthy 24dB per octave low-pass resonant filter. This filter type is essential for creating the deep, punchy textures associated with vintage bass pedal synthesizers.

Is the Lowdown monophonic or polyphonic?

The Lowdown is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it plays one note at a time. This design stays true to the original hardware intended specifically for bass lines.

How much does the Cherry Audio Lowdown typically cost?

The plugin generally retails for approximately GBP 25. This makes it a cost-effective solution for producers looking for a specific vintage bass sound.

What is component-level modelling?

It is a process where each individual part of the original hardware's circuit is analyzed and mathematically simulated. This results in a digital version that behaves exactly like the analogue original.

Can the Lowdown be used for lead sounds?

While primarily designed for 'room-rattling' bass, its dual oscillators and 24dB filter can produce lead tones. However, its architecture is optimized specifically for low-frequency performance.

Does it support modern DAW workflows?

Yes, as a Cherry Audio plugin, it is designed to work within standard digital audio workstations. It brings a 1970s hardware experience into a modern software production environment.

How does the Lowdown compare to the Roland Boutique TR-08?

The Lowdown is a dedicated bass synthesizer, whereas the TR-08 is a rhythm composer or drum machine. They serve different roles in a production, though both are emulations of classic gear.

Why is Hz/Oct scaling important for bass?

Unlike Volt/Oct scaling, Hz/Oct scaling maintains a consistent frequency offset between oscillators across the keyboard. This prevents the phase-related 'thinning out' of the sound, ensuring a solid bass foundation.

Gear article

Cherry Audio Lowdown Bass Synth

The Cherry Audio Lowdown Bass Synth is a software emulation of a classic monophonic bass pedal synthesizer, developed in collaboration with Mark Barton (MRB). It utilizes component-level analysis to replicate the room-rattling low-frequency power associated with legendary 1970s and 1980s progressive rock and pop recordings.

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Background and Development

The Lowdown was developed by Cherry Audio to provide a precise digital recreation of a legendary 1970s hardware bass pedal unit. The original hardware was distinguished by its monophonic synthesis and specific oscillator scaling, which differed from many contemporary subtractive synthesizers. To achieve an accurate recreation, Cherry Audio partnered with developer Mark Barton (MRB), employing proprietary component-level modelling and analysis. The goal was to preserve the unique 'room-rattling' low-end characteristics and the specific response of the original hardware circuits.

Oscillator and Filter Design

The synthesis engine is built around a dual oscillator design that utilizes Hz/Oct scaling. This approach facilitates a 'constant-beat' effect between oscillators, which contributes to the instrument's thick, stable low-end character. The filter section features a 24dB/octave low-pass resonant filter, designed to provide the girthy, powerful response required for bass duties. The plugin aims to replicate the exact tone of the hardware counterpart through rigorous analysis of its analogue signal path.

Sound Character and Artistic Use

The Lowdown is characterised by its immense low-frequency weight and classic analogue warmth. Historically, the hardware this plugin emulates was a staple of progressive rock and stadium pop. It was used extensively by bands such as Rush, Yes, Genesis, and The Police to provide a foundational bass layer that could be triggered by foot pedals while the musicians played other instruments. The plugin version retains this specific sonic profile, making it suitable for genres that require authoritative, floor-shaking bass tones.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the modern market, the Lowdown occupies a niche dedicated specifically to pedal-style bass synthesis. While many general-purpose synthesizers, such as the Behringer Neutron or the Oberheim OB-X8, can produce bass tones, they lack the specific Hz/Oct oscillator scaling and simplified interface dedicated to this particular pedigree of bass sound. At a typical price point of GBP 25, it serves as an accessible alternative to vintage hardware or more complex modular systems like the modul Modular Complete Studio System.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Cherry Audio Lowdown Bass Synth?: It is a monophonic virtual instrument designed to accurately emulate a classic 1970s bass pedal synthesizer. It focuses on delivering powerful, floor-shaking bass tones using component-level modelling.
Who developed the Lowdown?: The plugin was developed by Cherry Audio in collaboration with Mark Barton, also known as MRB. Together they used proprietary analysis to ensure the digital recreation matches the original hardware's response.
Which bands are associated with this sound?: The original hardware sound emulated by the Lowdown was used prominently by progressive rock bands like Rush and Yes. It was also a staple for pop-oriented groups such as Genesis and The Police.
What is unique about the oscillators in the Lowdown?: The Lowdown features a dual oscillator design with Hz/Oct scaling. This allows for a 'constant-beat' relationship between the two oscillators, resulting in a very thick and stable bass character.
What kind of filter does the Lowdown use?: It utilizes a girthy 24dB per octave low-pass resonant filter. This filter type is essential for creating the deep, punchy textures associated with vintage bass pedal synthesizers.
Is the Lowdown monophonic or polyphonic?: The Lowdown is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it plays one note at a time. This design stays true to the original hardware intended specifically for bass lines.
How much does the Cherry Audio Lowdown typically cost?: The plugin generally retails for approximately GBP 25. This makes it a cost-effective solution for producers looking for a specific vintage bass sound.
What is component-level modelling?: It is a process where each individual part of the original hardware's circuit is analyzed and mathematically simulated. This results in a digital version that behaves exactly like the analogue original.
Can the Lowdown be used for lead sounds?: While primarily designed for 'room-rattling' bass, its dual oscillators and 24dB filter can produce lead tones. However, its architecture is optimized specifically for low-frequency performance.
Does it support modern DAW workflows?: Yes, as a Cherry Audio plugin, it is designed to work within standard digital audio workstations. It brings a 1970s hardware experience into a modern software production environment.
How does the Lowdown compare to the Roland Boutique TR-08?: The Lowdown is a dedicated bass synthesizer, whereas the TR-08 is a rhythm composer or drum machine. They serve different roles in a production, though both are emulations of classic gear.
Why is Hz/Oct scaling important for bass?: Unlike Volt/Oct scaling, Hz/Oct scaling maintains a consistent frequency offset between oscillators across the keyboard. This prevents the phase-related 'thinning out' of the sound, ensuring a solid bass foundation.