Retrologue 2 virtual analog synthesizer plugin interface by Steinberg

Retrologue 2: Virtual Analog Synthesizer by Steinberg

Rated 4.6/5 on Plugin Boutique (37 ratings)

Retrologue 2 is a virtual analog synthesizer plugin by Steinberg. It uses three oscillators, 24 filter types and a 16-stage modulation matrix, and is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats.

VST3AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

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01Overview

Retrologue 2 is a software synthesizer built around virtual analog sound design. Steinberg positions it as a way to get the warmth and thickness associated with classic analog hardware inside a DAW. The synth combines three oscillators, each able to run up to eight de-tuned voices, with a large selection of filter types. A drag-and-drop modulation matrix lets you route sources to parameters quickly. The plugin ships with over 700 presets to start from.

Best for

Analog-style pads
Detuned lead sounds
Evolving filter sweeps
Synth basslines
Preset-based sound design

Developer: Steinberg
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Three virtual analog oscillators
Up to 8 de-tunable voices per oscillator
24 filter types
16-stage drag-and-drop modulation matrix
Over 700 presets included
Adaptable arpeggiator
Built-in FX rack
VST3, AU and AAX plugin formats

03In depth

Oscillators, Filters and Sound Character

Retrologue 2 uses three virtual analog oscillators. Each oscillator can run up to eight de-tuned voices, which is the main tool for building thick, wide pads and detuned leads.

The filter section offers 24 filter types. That range gives you options from classic-style low-pass responses to other shapes, so you can shape the same oscillator source in very different ways.

Steinberg describes the synth as emulating the warmth and fatness of classic analog instruments. Use the detune and filter controls together to get the most out of that character.

Modulation Matrix and Workflow

The 16-stage drag-and-drop modulation matrix is the main routing tool. You can connect sources to destinations without opening separate menus, which makes it practical to build evolving textures and moving filter sounds.

Retrologue 2 also includes an arpeggiator and an FX rack, which the developer presents as part of the overall sound-shaping toolkit. Because the presets cover a wide range of styles, the synth is a practical starting point for building your own patches from an existing sound.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Steinberg
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST3, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats does Retrologue 2 support?

Retrologue 2 is available in VST3, AU and AAX plugin formats.

Which operating systems are supported?

Retrologue 2 runs on Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit) and on macOS Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, Sonoma and Sequoia. It supports both Apple Silicon through a native app and Rosetta 2.