Ensoniq ESQ-1 Synthesizer: Virtual Hybrid Synth by Cherry Audio

Each voice uses three digital oscillators, and the plugin includes the original 32 ESQ-1 waveforms, licensed from Creative Technology. These are grouped into Basic and Noise, Samples, Additive/Formant and Band Limited categories. Oscillator sync and amplitude modulation add harmonics and metallic, bell-like timbres.

The filter section models the Curtis CEM3379 resonant low-pass filter, a 4-pole 24dB/oct design. The developer adds 2-pole 12dB/oct low-pass, high-pass and band-pass options. Four multistage envelopes with velocity stages complete the core synthesis.

The modulation matrix has four slots with click-to-assign routing, 41 sources and 85 destinations, including the arpeggiator, sequencer and effects. Three LFOs per layer offer tempo sync, reset and human timing variation.

Each layer has its own arpeggiator with Arp, Leap, Order and Random pattern modes, plus swing, chance and feel controls. The 16x4 polyphonic step sequencer is syncable and transposable, with four macro motions and humanize options. Keyboard split and stacked modes allow two playable layers, each with separate controls.

MIDI controllers can drive the engine through channel aftertouch, polyphonic aftertouch and MPE.