Predator-3 by Rob Papen hybrid synth plugin interface

Predator-3: Hybrid Synthesizer by Rob Papen Free Download

Rated 4.9/5 on Plugin Boutique (37 ratings)

Predator-3 is a hybrid synthesizer plugin by Rob Papen that combines analog-style sounds with wavetable sounds. It is the successor to the Predator series and ships with a large preset library.

VST3VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

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Free trial available from the developer

01Overview

Predator-3 is a hybrid synth from Rob Papen, the successor to a series the developer describes as having inspired many artists and composers. It pairs analog-modelled sound generation with additive and wavetable-style oscillators, so it can produce both classic analog tones and hybrid wavetable textures. The interface places the essential main controls on screen at once, and the bundled presets cover a wide range of music styles, giving producers a starting point for sound design.

Best for

Analog-style bass
Hybrid wavetable pads
Arpeggiated sequences
Side-chain modulation
Contemporary production sounds

Developer: Rob Papen
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Hybrid synthesizer with analog-style and hybrid wavetable sounds
Over 6500 presets across various music styles
Three oscillators with sub-oscillators and additive spectrum waveforms
Two analog-modelled filters with 38 filter types
Four arpeggiators with up to 16 steps each
Four LFOs, four envelopes and two multi-stage envelopes
20-slot modulation matrix with advanced mode
Three serial effects slots with 34 effect types

03In depth

Sound Generation and Oscillators

Predator-3 uses three oscillators, each with sub-oscillators. You can choose subtractive analog-modelled waveforms or additive spectrum waveforms, and each preset can hold eight user spectrum waveforms. Waveforms can morph dynamically inside each oscillator, and a spread feature adds three-oscillator detuning within each oscillator. Oscillators 2 and 3 offer various audio modulation options.

The filter section includes two analog-modelled filters with multiple routing options, 38 filter types, a pre-filter distortion filter and an additional high-pass filter with resonance control.

Modulation, Arpeggiator and Effects

Modulation sources include four LFOs, four envelopes and two multi-stage envelopes with up to 15 stages. A 20-slot modulation matrix with an advanced mode handles routing, and an audio follower with a side-chain input can drive modulation destinations from an incoming signal.

The arpeggiator offers four patterns with up to 16 steps each, with features such as tie, slide and ratcheting, plus chord, sequencer and modulating modes. Three serial effects slots offer 34 effect types, and the effects can be modulated.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Rob Papen
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit
Free trial	Yes

05Upgrades

Upgrade and crossgrade options

Option	Store link
Predator 3 Upgrade from Predator 1 or 2	Plugin Boutique ↗

06FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does Predator-3 support?

Predator-3 is available in VST3, VST2, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows and macOS and is 64-bit.

What operating systems does Predator-3 support?

Windows 7, 8, 10 and 11 (32- and 64-bit) are supported, as are macOS 10.12 Sierra through macOS 12 Monterey, including M1 Apple Silicon compatibility on the Mac side. The AAX format is 64-bit only and requires Pro Tools 12 or higher.

What do I need to use Predator-3?

You need a host that supports one of the listed plugin formats, and a display resolution of at least 1440 x 900 pixels. Predator-3 uses a serial and license system with offline activation, and the software can be installed on two of your own computers. It is also compatible with the Native Instruments NKS system.