Xpand!2 virtual instrument plugin interface by AIR Music Technology

Xpand!2: Multitimbral Workstation Synth by AIR Music Technology Free Download

Rated 4.6/5 on Plugin Boutique (20,561 ratings)

Xpand!2 is a multitimbral virtual instrument plugin from AIR Music Technology. It runs four stereo parts per patch, combining subtractive synthesis, FM synthesis and sample playback with two effects processors.

VST3VST2AUWindowsmacOS
AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique
Free trial available from the developer
01Overview

Xpand!2 began as one of the instruments in Avid's Pro Tools Creative Collection and was later released on its own. It is built around a four-part structure, so each patch can hold up to four stereo instrument parts. Each part has its own MIDI channel, note range, mix, arpeggiator, modulation and effects settings, which makes it practical for layering sounds or building multi-instrument patches.

Best for

  • Layered synth patches
  • Bass and lead sounds
  • Arpeggiated sequences
  • Ambient pads and FX
  • Electric piano and organ
  • Multitimbral song sounds
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02Key features

What you get

  • Four-channel multitimbral operation with up to four stereo parts per patch
  • Up to 64 voices per part in poly mode, or mono with note priority
  • Six Smart Knobs that change function with the selected part
  • Easy Edit mode controls all common parts from one set of knobs
  • Two effects processors with 50 editable effect types
  • Independent arpeggiator per part with dotted and triplet rates
  • Subtractive and FM synthesis engines plus sample playback
  • Pitch Bend and Aftertouch assignable per part
03In depth

Sound Engines and Patch Structure

Xpand!2 combines several sound generation engines, including subtractive synthesis and FM synthesis, along with sample playback and tonewheel sounds. Each part can be set to polyphonic mode with up to 64 voices, or to monophonic mode with First, Last, Highest or Lowest note priority, which suits basses, leads and solo instruments.

The four parts can be used together to build one patch or kept separate for individual sounds. Parts can be browsed and are sorted into 29 categories to help you find a starting point quickly.

Smart Knobs, Modulation and Effects

Six Smart Knobs change function depending on the selected part, giving direct control over the most important sound parameters. In Easy Edit mode, the six knobs control all four common parts at once, which speeds up broad edits across a whole patch.

Pitch Bend and Aftertouch can be assigned independently for each part, and modulation rates can sync to tempo. Two effects processors offer 50 editable effect types, and the output of the first can feed the second for cascaded effects. Each part also has its own arpeggiator with rate, mode and latch options.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

DeveloperAIR Music Technology
TypePlugin
CategoryVirtual Instruments
FormatsVST3, VST2, AU
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Free trialYes
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats and operating systems does Xpand!2 support?

Xpand!2 is available in VST3, VST2 and AU formats. It runs on Windows and macOS.

What are the system requirements for Xpand!2?

The listed requirements are Windows 10 or Windows 11, or macOS 14 Sonoma or macOS 26, with 4GB RAM (8GB recommended) and a dual-core 2.5GHz CPU.

Does Xpand!2 have a trial version?

Yes, a trial is available for Xpand!2.

How many presets does Xpand!2 include?

The developer lists 2500+ total presets and parts, covering pads, synth leads, pianos, organs, strings, basses, drums, loops and more.

07Developer

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