Element 2.0 Virtual Analog Synth by Waves plugin interface

Element 2.0 Virtual Analog Synth by Waves: Warm Analog-Style Synthesizer

Element 2.0 Virtual Analog Synth is a software synthesizer from Waves that models the sound of classic analog mono synths and polysynths. It is sold as a plugin for studio use and can also run stand-alone.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS

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01Overview

Element 2.0 is a virtual analog synthesizer from Waves, built around the warm, full sound associated with analog instruments. Waves says it aims to capture the feel of classic analog synths as well as their sound, with a direct interface meant for quick tweaking. It is available as a plugin for use in a digital audio workstation, and it can also run stand-alone for live performance. A large preset library gives producers a fast starting point.

Best for

Warm analog bass
Retro synth pads
Rhythmic arpeggios
Live stand-alone performance
Classic 80s leads

Developer: Waves
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Classic sound of 70s mono synths and 80s polysynths
Plugin for studio use or stand-alone for live performance
Matrix modulation for controlling synth parameters
16-step sequencing and arpeggiation for rhythmic motion
Built-in suite of effects alongside the synthesis engine
MIDI Learn on all controls
Hundreds of included presets

03In depth

Sound Character and Synthesis Engine

Element 2.0 is designed around the sound of 70s mono synths and 80s polysynths. Waves describes the result as fat and warm, with the lustrous quality often associated with analog hardware.

The synthesis engine is complemented by a suite of built-in effects, so you can shape the tone and space of a patch without adding separate processors. This makes it a practical choice for producers who want a classic analog voice inside a single instrument.

Workflow, Modulation and Sequencing

Matrix modulation lets you route sources to synth parameters, which is useful for building movement into pads, basses and leads. MIDI Learn can be assigned to controls, so hardware controllers can be mapped to the parameters you use most.

The 16-step sequencer and arpeggiator add rhythmic motion without leaving the instrument. Element 2.0 also runs as a plugin in the studio or stand-alone on stage, so the same patches can move between production and live use.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Waves
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does Element 2.0 support?

Element 2.0 is available in VST2, AU and AAX formats.

Which operating systems can run Element 2.0?

Element 2.0 runs on Windows and macOS. The listed macOS versions are Monterey 12, Ventura 13, Sonoma 14 and Sequoia 15, and the Windows version requires Windows 10 or later.