HALO-2 by DHPlugins hybrid synth and sampler plugin interface

HALO-2: Hybrid Synth, Sampler and Rompler Plugin by DHPlugins Free Download

Rated 4.6/5 on Plugin Boutique (111 ratings)

HALO-2 is a hybrid synth plugin from DHPlugins that combines re-sampled audio, synthesis layers, filters, effects and modulation to create basses, leads, pads and stabs. It is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats.

VST3AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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Free trial available from the developer

01Overview

HALO-2 combines a sample layer, a sub oscillator and a synth layer in one instrument. Its 430+ presets and 300+ sample banks give a starting point for basses, leads, pads and stabs, and the filter, effect and modulation options let you build new sounds from there. You can also import your own audio files, or load optional expansions that each have their own theme and sonic character.

Best for

Reese basses
Lead synth sounds
Ambient pads
Stabs and chords
Sound design experiments
Arpeggiated melodies

Developer: DHPlugins
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

430+ presets and 300+ sample banks
Sample and synth FM synthesis
Dual oscillator synth layer with FM
Sub oscillator and dedicated pitch enveloper
Assignable arpeggiator with random melody generator
Three pre-distortion and one post-distortion multi filter
Custom waveshaping distortion and four distortion modes
Step sequence modulation and right-click modulation matrix
Reverb, delay, phaser and chorus effects
Import user audio files and expansions

03In depth

Sample, Synth and Sub Layers for Hybrid Sound Design

HALO-2 is built around three layers: Sample, Sub and Synth. Each Sample Bank was created by DHPlugins using a range of hardware and software synthesizers, effects and processing, then layered with HALO-2's built-in synthesizers, filters, effects and modulators.

The Synth layer includes dual oscillators with FM, and the sampler supports FM from synth waveforms, factory sample banks or other user samples. Together these options cover everything from heavy reese basses to open, liquid pads.

Three pre-distortion multi filters, a post-distortion multi filter and four distortion modes, including a customizable waveshaper, give you control over grit and tone.

Arpeggiator, Random Generator and Modulation

The assignable arpeggiator can be applied to the sampler, sub or synth layer, so you can arpeggiate your own samples over a synth bed or the reverse. It includes a random melody generator: choose a scale and trigger the random button to generate melodies, riffs or progressions. A separate preset browser stores your arp settings, and the library includes more than 30 arp presets and scales.

Modulation runs through user-editable LFOs, step sequence modulation, a right-click modulation matrix and a dedicated pitch envelope. The Random Preset Generator can also randomize the modulators, waveshaper, sample banks and arpeggiator.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	DHPlugins
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit
Free trial	Yes

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does HALO-2 come in?

HALO-2 is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What do I need to run HALO-2?

On Windows, you need Windows 10 or later (64-bit only). On macOS, you need macOS 10.15 or later, and it is compatible with Apple Silicon. Both systems require 1GB RAM minimum and 4GB of storage space.